2025 ICD-10-CM code L72.3

Sebaceous cyst; a cyst originating from a sebaceous gland.

Appropriate coding requires accurate documentation specifying the type of cyst and any associated complications (e.g., infection).If multiple cysts are present, consider assigning separate codes or using modifiers to reflect this. Always confirm the definitive diagnosis before assigning this code.

Modifiers may be used to indicate multiple lesions or procedures on different areas of the body, or if the service was performed by multiple physicians.

Medical necessity for treatment of sebaceous cysts is typically established when the cyst is symptomatic (painful, infected, or cosmetically concerning), or when there's a concern for malignancy (although rare).

Dermatologists or other physicians specializing in skin conditions are typically responsible for diagnosing and treating sebaceous cysts.The clinical responsibility includes physical examination, differential diagnosis (to rule out other skin lesions), and determination of the treatment strategy.

IMPORTANT May be coded with other codes depending on the clinical context.Consider L72.11 (Pilar cyst), L72.12 (Trichilemmal cyst), L72.8 (Other follicular cysts), or L82 (Seborrheic keratosis) based on the specific characteristics of the lesion.

In simple words: A sebaceous cyst is a lump under the skin filled with an oily substance. It forms from a blocked oil gland.

L72.3, Sebaceous cyst, is an ICD-10-CM code that classifies a benign cystic lesion arising from a sebaceous gland.These cysts are typically filled with sebum (an oily substance produced by sebaceous glands) and can vary in size and location on the body.The diagnosis requires clinical examination, possibly supported by imaging studies to rule out other conditions.

Example 1: A 35-year-old male presents with a slowly growing, painless nodule on his scalp. Physical examination reveals a fluctuant, mobile, 1cm cyst consistent with a sebaceous cyst.No other significant findings are noted., A 60-year-old female presents with a tender, inflamed, 2cm cyst on her face.The lesion is erythematous, warm to the touch, and associated with local discomfort.A diagnosis of infected sebaceous cyst is made., A 20-year-old patient presents with multiple small, asymptomatic cysts on their back.These are consistent with a diagnosis of multiple sebaceous cysts.

Detailed clinical history, including duration and symptoms; thorough physical examination noting size, location, tenderness, and any signs of infection; photographic documentation of the lesion(s);results of any imaging studies (if performed);documentation of the procedure performed and the pathology report if a surgical excision was done.

** Sebaceous cysts are usually benign, but they can become infected or, rarely, cancerous.Always ensure that the diagnosis is confirmed and documented appropriately.

  • Payment Status: Active
  • Specialties:Dermatology, General Surgery
  • Place of Service:Office, Outpatient Hospital, Ambulatory Surgical Center
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