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ICD-10 Coding for Epidermoid Cyst(L72.0)

Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Epidermoid Cyst. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.

Also known as:

Epidermal Inclusion CystSebaceous Cyst

Related ICD-10 Code Ranges

Complete code families applicable to Epidermoid Cyst

L72-L72.9Primary Range

Follicular cysts of skin and subcutaneous tissue

This range includes codes for different types of skin cysts, including epidermoid cysts.

Key Information: ICD-10 code for epidermoid cyst

Essential facts and insights about Epidermoid Cyst

The ICD-10 code for an epidermoid cyst is L72.0.

Primary ICD-10-CM Code for epidermoid cyst

Epidermal cyst
Billable Code

Decision Criteria

clinical Criteria

  • Presence of a central punctum and keratin material

coding Criteria

  • Avoid using neoplasm codes for benign cysts

Applicable To

  • Epidermoid cyst
  • Epidermal inclusion cyst

Excludes

Clinical Validation Requirements

  • Mobile dermal nodule with central punctum
  • Cheesy keratin material expressed
  • Histopathology shows stratified squamous epithelium with laminated keratin

Code-Specific Risks

  • Confusion with sebaceous cysts
  • Incorrect use of neoplasm codes

Coding Notes

  • Ensure documentation specifies the cyst type and any associated infection.

Ancillary Codes

Additional codes that should be used in conjunction with the main diagnosis codes when applicable.

Staphylococcus aureus as the cause of diseases classified elsewhere

B95.6
Use when the cyst is infected and S. aureus is identified as the causative organism.

Differential Codes

Alternative codes to consider when ruling out similar conditions to the primary diagnosis.

Sebaceous cyst

L72.3
Sebaceous cysts contain oily secretion and often present with inflammation.

Documentation & Coding Risks

Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Epidermoid Cyst to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code L72.0.

Impact

Clinical: May affect treatment decisions, Regulatory: Non-compliance with documentation standards, Financial: Potential claim denials

Mitigation Strategy

Standardize documentation templates, Regular training on documentation requirements

Impact

Reimbursement: Incorrect coding may lead to denied claims., Compliance: Non-compliance with ICD-10 coding guidelines., Data Quality: Inaccurate clinical data reporting.

Mitigation Strategy

Verify the cyst type and use L72.0 for epidermoid cysts.

Impact

Using neoplasm codes for benign cysts

Mitigation Strategy

Regular audits and coder education

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 Epidermoid Cyst, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.

Documentation Templates for Epidermoid Cyst

Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Epidermoid Cyst. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.

Excision of Epidermoid Cyst

Specialty: Dermatology

Required Elements

  • Cyst size and location
  • Presence of central punctum
  • Histopathology results

Example Documentation

PREOP DIAGNOSIS: 2.1cm symptomatic epidermal inclusion cyst, left posterior neck...

Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation

Poor Documentation Example
Cyst removed from back
Good Documentation Example
1.8cm mobile subcutaneous nodule with central punctum at T4 vertebral level...
Explanation
The good example provides detailed location, size, and characteristics, improving clinical documentation.

Need help with ICD-10 coding for Epidermoid Cyst? Ask your questions below.

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