ICD-10 Code C44.311 | Basal cell carcinoma of skin of nose Symptoms, Diagnosis, Billing

Basal cell carcinoma of the skin of the nose is a common form of skin cancer that arises from the basal cells in the epidermis. It is primarily caused by prolonged exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun. Clinically significant due to its potential for local invasion and destruction of surrounding tissues, accurate coding with ICD-10 Code C44.311 is essential for proper diagnosis, documentation, medical billing, and public health reporting.

What is ICD-10 Code C44.311 for Basal cell carcinoma of skin of nose?

ICD-10 Code C44.311 specifically identifies basal cell carcinoma located on the skin of the nose. This code is used when documenting cases of this skin cancer, which may present as a pearly or waxy bump, a flat, flesh-colored lesion, or a sore that does not heal. It is crucial for accurate clinical documentation and billing, ensuring that healthcare providers can effectively communicate the diagnosis and treatment provided.

ICD-10 Code C44.311 – Clinical Definition and Explanation of Basal cell carcinoma of skin of nose

Basal cell carcinoma of the skin of the nose is primarily caused by excessive sun exposure, leading to mutations in the basal cells. This cancer typically progresses slowly and rarely metastasizes, but it can cause significant local damage if left untreated. Medical attention is necessary to prevent complications and ensure effective treatment.

Key Clinical Features:

• Pearly or waxy nodules on the nose
• Flat, scaly patches that may be red or brown
• Sores that bleed or do not heal
• Localized pain or tenderness
• History of sun exposure or tanning bed use

ICD-10 Code C44.311 for Basal cell carcinoma of skin of nose – SOAP Notes & Clinical Use

ICD-10 Code C44.311 is utilized in SOAP notes to document the diagnosis of basal cell carcinoma of the skin of the nose. It plays a vital role in capturing the patient's symptoms, assessment findings, and treatment plans, relevant in both acute and chronic care settings.

What Does ICD-10 Code C44.311 for Basal cell carcinoma of skin of nose Mean in SOAP Notes?

In SOAP notes, ICD-10 Code C44.311 connects subjective patient-reported symptoms and objective clinical findings to a formal diagnosis of basal cell carcinoma of the skin of the nose. This ensures continuity of care, supports accurate billing, and meets EHR documentation standards.

Treatment Options for ICD-10 Code C44.311 – Basal cell carcinoma of skin of nose

Basal cell carcinoma of the skin of the nose requires prompt treatment to prevent local invasion and complications. Surgical excision is the primary treatment modality.

Antibiotic Therapy:

• Not applicable as basal cell carcinoma is not an infectious condition.

Supportive Care:

• Regular follow-up appointments to monitor for recurrence.
• Use of sunscreen to protect the skin from UV exposure.
• Education on skin self-examination for early detection of new lesions.

Infection Control:

• Maintain sterile technique during surgical procedures.
• Educate patients on wound care post-excision to prevent infection.

How to Document Symptoms of Basal cell carcinoma of skin of nose (ICD-10 C44.311) in SOAP Notes

Subjective:

• Patient reports a new growth on the nose that has been present for several months.
• Describes the lesion as itchy and occasionally bleeding.
• History of significant sun exposure and previous skin cancers.
• No family history of skin cancer reported.

Objective:

• Physical examination reveals a pearly, raised nodule on the nasal tip.
• Lesion measures approximately 1 cm in diameter.
• No lymphadenopathy noted in the cervical region.
• Dermatoscopic examination shows telangiectasia and ulceration.

Secure, compliant, and built for trust

HIPAA-compliant and designed with privacy in mind, your patient’s data is protected. Focus on care while we safeguard your information.

Learn more

SOAP Note Guidelines for Diagnosing Basal cell carcinoma of skin of nose (ICD-10 Code C44.311)

Assessment:

• Diagnosis: Basal cell carcinoma of skin of nose, localized.
• ICD-10 Code: C44.311.
• Contributing factors: History of UV exposure.
• Severity: Low risk of metastasis but potential for local invasion.

Plan:

• Refer for surgical excision of the lesion.
• Educate patient on sun protection measures.
• Schedule follow-up in 6 months for monitoring.
• Consider dermatology referral for Mohs micrographic surgery if indicated.

Treatment & Plan Section for ICD-10 Code C44.311 – Basal cell carcinoma of skin of nose

• Surgical excision is the first-line treatment for basal cell carcinoma.
• Cryotherapy may be considered for superficial lesions.
• Topical chemotherapy agents like 5-fluorouracil can be used for superficial types.
• Regular skin examinations and patient education on skin care are essential.

Using ICD-10 Code C44.311 for Basal cell carcinoma of skin of nose in Billing & SOAP Note Compliance

• Ensure accurate documentation of the diagnosis in the Subjective (S) and Objective (O) sections.
• Use C44.311 when billing for surgical excision or dermatological consultations.
• Document all relevant clinical findings to support the diagnosis and treatment plan.
• Follow coding guidelines to ensure compliance and avoid claim denials.

Related ICD-10 Codes Often Used with Basal cell carcinoma of skin of nose

• C44.319 – Basal cell carcinoma of skin, unspecified site
• C43.9 – Malignant melanoma of skin, unspecified
• C44.310 – Basal cell carcinoma of skin of face

ICD-10 Code C44.311 in Medical Billing and Insurance for Basal cell carcinoma of skin of nose

ICD-10 Code C44.311 is critical for billing in hospital, ER, or outpatient settings for patients diagnosed with basal cell carcinoma of the skin of the nose.

Billing Notes:

• Document the diagnosis clearly in the medical record to support the claim.
• Use C44.311 in conjunction with procedure codes for excision or biopsy.
• Ensure that all relevant clinical information is included in the chart to justify the billing.
• Review payer-specific guidelines for any additional documentation requirements.

Common CPT Pairings: