ICD-10 Coding for Basal Cell Carcinoma of the Nose(C44.311, C44.319)
Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Basal Cell Carcinoma of the Nose. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.
Also known as:
Related ICD-10 Code Ranges
Complete code families applicable to Basal Cell Carcinoma of the Nose
C44.3-C44.39Primary Range
Other and unspecified malignant neoplasm of skin
This range includes specific codes for basal cell carcinoma of the skin, including the nose.
Code Comparison: When to Use Each Code
Compare key differences between these codes to ensure accurate selection
| Code | Description | When to Use | Key Documentation |
|---|---|---|---|
| C44.311 | Basal cell carcinoma of skin of nose | Use when BCC is specifically documented on the nose. |
|
| C44.319 | Basal cell carcinoma of skin of other parts of face | Use when BCC is documented on the face but not specifically on the nose. |
|
Clinical Decision Support
Always review the patient's clinical documentation thoroughly. When in doubt, choose the more specific code and ensure documentation supports it.
Key Information: ICD-10 code for basal cell carcinoma nose
Essential facts and insights about Basal Cell Carcinoma of the Nose
Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for basal cell carcinoma nose
Decision Criteria
clinical Criteria
- Biopsy confirms BCC on nasal subunit
documentation Criteria
- Lesion size and morphology documented
Applicable To
- Nodular BCC of nose
- Superficial BCC of nose
Excludes
- Basal cell carcinoma of other parts of face (C44.319)
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Biopsy confirmation of basal cell carcinoma
- Documentation of lesion on nasal subunit
Code-Specific Risks
- Incorrect use of unspecified codes when nasal location is documented
Coding Notes
- Ensure precise documentation of the lesion's location on the nose.
C44.319 - Basal cell carcinoma of skin of other parts of face
Use when BCC is documented on the face but not specifically on the nose.
Applicable To
- BCC on cheek
- BCC on forehead
Excludes
- Basal cell carcinoma of skin of nose (C44.311)
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Biopsy confirmation of basal cell carcinoma
- Documentation of lesion on face without nasal specificity
Coding Notes
Ensure documentation specifies the facial location if not on the nose.
Ancillary Codes
Additional codes that should be used in conjunction with the main diagnosis codes when applicable.
Personal history of other malignant neoplasms of skin
Z85.828Differential Codes
Alternative codes to consider when ruling out similar conditions to the primary diagnosis.
Documentation & Coding Risks
Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Basal Cell Carcinoma of the Nose to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code C44.311.
Impact
Clinical: Impacts treatment planning and follow-up., Regulatory: Non-compliance with documentation standards., Financial: Potential claim denials due to insufficient detail.
Mitigation Strategy
Always measure and document lesion size., Include size in all clinical notes.
Impact
Reimbursement: May lead to reduced reimbursement due to lack of specificity., Compliance: Non-compliance with coding guidelines., Data Quality: Decreases accuracy of clinical data.
Mitigation Strategy
Use C44.311 when the lesion is on the nose.
Impact
High risk of audit if unspecified codes are used for documented nasal lesions.
Mitigation Strategy
Ensure documentation specifies nasal subunit to support specific coding.
Documentation errors, coding pitfalls, and audit risks are interconnected aspects of medical coding and billing. Addressing all three areas helps ensure accurate coding, optimal reimbursement, and regulatory compliance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about ICD-10 coding for Basal Cell Carcinoma of the Nose, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.
Documentation Templates for Basal Cell Carcinoma of the Nose
Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Basal Cell Carcinoma of the Nose. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.
Mohs Surgery for BCC on Nose
Specialty: DermatologyRequired Elements
- Pre-op and post-op diagnosis
- Procedure details
- Stage and block count
- Closure method
Example Documentation
Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation
Poor Documentation Example
Good Documentation Example
Explanation
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