ICD-10 Coding for Skin Tag(L91.8, L91.0)
Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Skin Tag. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.
Also known as:
Related ICD-10 Code Ranges
Complete code families applicable to Skin Tag
Code Comparison: When to Use Each Code
Compare key differences between these codes to ensure accurate selection
| Code | Description | When to Use | Key Documentation |
|---|---|---|---|
| L91.8 | Other hypertrophic disorders of the skin | Use for symptomatic skin tags, such as those that are irritated or bleeding. |
|
| L91.0 | Hypertrophic scar | Use for asymptomatic skin tags without complications. |
|
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 symptomatic skin tags
Essential facts and insights about Skin Tag
Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for skin tag
Decision Criteria
clinical Criteria
- Presence of symptoms such as irritation or bleeding
documentation Criteria
- Detailed description of lesion size and symptoms
Applicable To
- Symptomatic skin tags
Excludes
- Asymptomatic skin tags (L91.0)
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Measurement of largest lesion
- Description of base (pedunculated vs. sessile)
- Symptom duration
Code-Specific Risks
- Documentation must specify symptoms to justify medical necessity.
Coding Notes
- Ensure documentation includes symptoms and location for accurate coding.
L91.0 - Hypertrophic scar
Use for asymptomatic skin tags without complications.
Applicable To
- Asymptomatic skin tags
Excludes
- Symptomatic skin tags (L91.8)
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Description of multiple benign skin tags
- No signs of irritation
Coding Notes
Use only when skin tags are purely cosmetic and asymptomatic.
Ancillary Codes
Additional codes that should be used in conjunction with the main diagnosis codes when applicable.
Other benign neoplasm of skin, unspecified
D23.9Differential Codes
Alternative codes to consider when ruling out similar conditions to the primary diagnosis.
Other specified disorders of skin and subcutaneous tissue
L98.8Documentation & Coding Risks
Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Skin Tag to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code L91.8.
Impact
Clinical: Inaccurate representation of patient condition., Regulatory: Risk of audit failure., Financial: Potential claim denials.
Mitigation Strategy
Always document symptoms when present., Use templates to ensure completeness.
Impact
Reimbursement: Incorrect coding may lead to claim denials., Compliance: Non-compliance with coding guidelines., Data Quality: Inaccurate clinical data representation.
Mitigation Strategy
Use L91.8 when symptoms are present.
Impact
Reimbursement: Potential underpayment for services rendered., Compliance: Non-compliance with procedural coding standards., Data Quality: Inaccurate procedural data capture.
Mitigation Strategy
Use 11200 for the first 15 lesions and 11201 for each additional 10.
Impact
Lack of symptom documentation for symptomatic skin tags.
Mitigation Strategy
Implement mandatory fields in EHR for symptom documentation.
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 Skin Tag, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.
Documentation Templates for Skin Tag
Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Skin Tag. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.
Symptomatic Skin Tag Removal
Specialty: DermatologyRequired Elements
- Location of lesions
- Number and size of lesions
- Symptoms and duration
- Procedure details
Example Documentation
Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation
Poor Documentation Example
Good Documentation Example
Explanation
Need help with ICD-10 coding for Skin Tag? Ask your questions below.