ICD-10 Code C44.629 | Squamous cell carcinoma skin/ left upper limb, inc shoulder Symptoms, Diagnosis, Billing

Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) of the skin is a malignant tumor arising from keratinocytes, often linked to UV exposure. This specific code, C44.629, denotes SCC located on the left upper limb, including the shoulder. Accurate coding is essential for diagnosis, treatment planning, and reimbursement, ensuring proper documentation for patient care and public health tracking.

What is ICD-10 Code C44.629 for Squamous cell carcinoma skin/ left upper limb, inc shoulder?

ICD-10 Code C44.629 represents squamous cell carcinoma of the skin located on the left upper limb, including the shoulder. This code is used when documenting cases of SCC that may arise from chronic sun exposure or other risk factors. It is crucial for accurate clinical documentation and billing, ensuring that healthcare providers can effectively communicate the patient's condition and treatment needs.

ICD-10 Code C44.629 – Clinical Definition and Explanation of Squamous cell carcinoma skin/ left upper limb, inc shoulder

Squamous cell carcinoma of the skin is characterized by the uncontrolled growth of abnormal squamous cells. It can develop in areas frequently exposed to the sun, such as the left upper limb and shoulder. Early detection and treatment are vital to prevent metastasis and complications.

Key Clinical Features:

• Commonly presents as a persistent, non-healing sore or growth.
• May exhibit scaling, crusting, or ulceration.
• Higher incidence in individuals with fair skin and a history of sun exposure.
• Potential for local invasion and metastasis if untreated.

ICD-10 Code C44.629 for Squamous cell carcinoma skin/ left upper limb, inc shoulder – SOAP Notes & Clinical Use

ICD-10 Code C44.629 is utilized in SOAP notes to document the patient's symptoms, assessment findings, and treatment plans. It plays a crucial role in both acute and chronic care settings, ensuring comprehensive documentation of the patient's condition and facilitating appropriate billing.

What Does ICD-10 Code C44.629 for Squamous cell carcinoma skin/ left upper limb, inc shoulder Mean in SOAP Notes?

In SOAP notes, ICD-10 Code C44.629 connects subjective patient reports and objective clinical findings to a formal diagnosis of squamous cell carcinoma. This code is essential for maintaining continuity of care, supporting accurate billing, and meeting EHR documentation standards.

Treatment Options for ICD-10 Code C44.629 – Squamous cell carcinoma skin/ left upper limb, inc shoulder

Prompt treatment of squamous cell carcinoma is critical to prevent progression. Surgical excision is often the primary approach, with additional therapies as needed.

Antibiotic Therapy:

• Not applicable as SCC is not an infectious condition.

Supportive Care:

• Regular follow-up appointments for monitoring.
• Wound care and management of surgical sites.
• Patient education on sun protection and skin care.

Infection Control:

• Maintain sterile techniques during procedures.
• Educate patients on signs of infection post-surgery.

How to Document Symptoms of Squamous cell carcinoma skin/ left upper limb, inc shoulder (ICD-10 C44.629) in SOAP Notes

Subjective:

• Patient reports a non-healing sore on the left shoulder.
• History of increased sun exposure and previous skin lesions.
• Complaints of itching and discomfort in the affected area.

Objective:

• Physical examination reveals a 2 cm ulcerated lesion on the left shoulder.
• Surrounding erythema and scaling noted.
• No lymphadenopathy detected in the axillary region.

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SOAP Note Guidelines for Diagnosing Squamous cell carcinoma skin/ left upper limb, inc shoulder (ICD-10 Code C44.629)

Assessment:

• Diagnosis: Squamous cell carcinoma of the skin, left upper limb, inc shoulder, moderate severity.
• ICD-10 Subcode: C44.629.
• Contributing factors include chronic sun exposure and fair skin.

Plan:

• Refer for surgical excision of the lesion.
• Educate patient on sun protection measures.
• Schedule follow-up in 2 weeks to assess healing.

Treatment & Plan Section for ICD-10 Code C44.629 – Squamous cell carcinoma skin/ left upper limb, inc shoulder

• Surgical excision is the primary treatment modality.
• Consider Mohs micrographic surgery for larger lesions.
• Educate on the importance of regular skin checks.
• Monitor for recurrence during follow-up visits.

Using ICD-10 Code C44.629 for Squamous cell carcinoma skin/ left upper limb, inc shoulder in Billing & SOAP Note Compliance

• Ensure accurate documentation of symptoms and clinical findings.
• Use C44.629 in settings where skin cancer treatment is provided.
• Align treatment plans with clinical guidelines for justified billing.
• Include relevant CPT codes for surgical procedures performed.

Related ICD-10 Codes Often Used with Squamous cell carcinoma skin/ left upper limb, inc shoulder

• C44.629 – Squamous cell carcinoma skin, left upper limb, inc shoulder
• C44.619 – Squamous cell carcinoma skin, unspecified
• C43.9 – Melanoma, unspecified

ICD-10 Code C44.629 in Medical Billing and Insurance for Squamous cell carcinoma skin/ left upper limb, inc shoulder

ICD-10 Code C44.629 is critical for billing in hospital and outpatient settings, ensuring accurate reimbursement for services rendered.

Billing Notes:

• Document all relevant clinical findings to support the diagnosis.
• Use C44.629 in conjunction with treatment codes for surgical interventions.
• Ensure compliance with payer-specific documentation requirements.

Common CPT Pairings: