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ICD-10 Coding for Pilar Cyst(L72.11)

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

Also known as:

Trichilemmal CystSebaceous Cyst (incorrectly used)

Related ICD-10 Code Ranges

Complete code families applicable to Pilar Cyst

L72-L72.9Primary Range

Follicular cysts of skin and subcutaneous tissue

This range includes all types of follicular cysts, with L72.11 specifically for pilar cysts.

Key Information: ICD-10 code for pilar cyst

Essential facts and insights about Pilar Cyst

The ICD-10 code for a pilar cyst is L72.11, used for confirmed cases of pilar or trichilemmal cysts.

Primary ICD-10-CM Code for pilar cyst

Pilar cyst
Billable Code

Decision Criteria

clinical Criteria

  • Histological confirmation of trichilemmal keratinization

coding Criteria

  • Use L72.11 for confirmed pilar cysts only

documentation Criteria

  • Document size, location, and histological findings

Applicable To

  • Trichilemmal cyst

Excludes

Clinical Validation Requirements

  • Histological confirmation of trichilemmal keratinization
  • Absence of granular layer

Code-Specific Risks

  • Misclassification as sebaceous cyst without histology
  • Incorrect use for epidermoid cysts

Coding Notes

  • Ensure histological confirmation to avoid misclassification.

Ancillary Codes

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

Other specified local infections of skin and subcutaneous tissue

L08.89
Use if the cyst is infected.

Differential Codes

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

Epidermoid cyst

L72.0
Presence of granular layer in histology.

Sebaceous cyst

L72.3
Contains sebum, not keratin.

Documentation & Coding Risks

Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Pilar Cyst to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code L72.11.

Impact

Clinical: Inadequate clinical records for future reference., Regulatory: Potential audit issues due to lack of specificity., Financial: Denial of claims due to insufficient documentation.

Mitigation Strategy

Use structured templates for documentation., Include all required elements like size and closure type.

Impact

Reimbursement: Incorrect reimbursement due to wrong code usage., Compliance: Non-compliance with coding standards., Data Quality: Inaccurate clinical data affecting patient records.

Mitigation Strategy

Confirm with histology before coding.

Impact

Using L72.3 for pilar cysts without histological confirmation.

Mitigation Strategy

Ensure histological confirmation before 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 Pilar Cyst, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.

Documentation Templates for Pilar Cyst

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

Excision of Pilar Cyst

Specialty: Dermatology

Required Elements

  • Size of cyst
  • Location
  • Method of excision
  • Closure type

Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation

Poor Documentation Example
Removed cyst from scalp.
Good Documentation Example
Excision of 1.8 cm pilar cyst at left parietal scalp with layered closure using 4-0 Monocryl.
Explanation
The good example specifies size, location, and closure method, which are essential for accurate coding.

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

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