ICD-10 Code C44.722 | Squamous cell carcinoma skin/ right lower limb, inc hip Symptoms, Diagnosis, Billing

Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) of the skin is a malignant tumor arising from keratinocytes, often associated with prolonged sun exposure or other carcinogenic factors. The right lower limb, including the hip, is a common site for this type of cancer. Accurate coding with ICD-10 Code C44.722 is essential for proper diagnosis, documentation, medical billing, and public health reporting, ensuring that patients receive appropriate care and resources.

What is ICD-10 Code C44.722 for Squamous cell carcinoma skin/ right lower limb, inc hip?

ICD-10 Code C44.722 specifically identifies squamous cell carcinoma of the skin located on the right lower limb, including the hip. This code is used in clinical documentation and billing to denote the presence of this malignancy, which may arise from chronic sun exposure, immunosuppression, or other risk factors. It is crucial for healthcare providers to use this code accurately to reflect the patient's condition and facilitate appropriate treatment and reimbursement.

ICD-10 Code C44.722 – Clinical Definition and Explanation of Squamous cell carcinoma skin/ right lower limb, inc hip

Squamous cell carcinoma of the skin on the right lower limb, including the hip, is characterized by the uncontrolled growth of abnormal squamous cells. This condition can arise from various factors, including UV radiation exposure and pre-existing skin lesions. Prompt medical attention is necessary to prevent progression and metastasis.

Key Clinical Features:

• Typically presents as a firm, red nodule or a flat sore with a scaly crust.
• May be associated with pain, tenderness, or ulceration.
• Higher incidence in individuals with fair skin and a history of sun exposure.
• Potential for metastasis if left untreated, necessitating early intervention.

ICD-10 Code C44.722 for Squamous cell carcinoma skin/ right lower limb, inc hip – SOAP Notes & Clinical Use

ICD-10 Code C44.722 is utilized in SOAP notes to document the patient's symptoms, assessment findings, and treatment plans related to squamous cell carcinoma of the skin on the right lower limb, including the hip. This code is relevant in both acute and chronic care settings, ensuring comprehensive patient management.

What Does ICD-10 Code C44.722 for Squamous cell carcinoma skin/ right lower limb, inc hip Mean in SOAP Notes?

In SOAP notes, ICD-10 Code C44.722 connects subjective patient-reported symptoms and objective clinical findings to a formal diagnosis of squamous cell carcinoma. This coding ensures continuity of care, supports accurate billing, and meets EHR documentation standards.

Treatment Options for ICD-10 Code C44.722 – Squamous cell carcinoma skin/ right lower limb, inc hip

The management of squamous cell carcinoma on the right lower limb, including the hip, requires prompt intervention to prevent progression. Treatment options vary based on the tumor's size, location, and stage.

Antibiotic Therapy:

• Not applicable as SCC is not an infectious condition.

Supportive Care:

• Surgical excision of the tumor.
• Cryotherapy or topical chemotherapy for superficial lesions.
• Regular follow-up for monitoring recurrence.

Infection Control:

• Maintain proper wound care post-surgery to prevent infection.
• Educate patients on signs of infection and when to seek care.

How to Document Symptoms of Squamous cell carcinoma skin/ right lower limb, inc hip (ICD-10 C44.722) in SOAP Notes

Subjective:

• Patient reports a persistent sore on the right lower limb that has not healed.
• Complains of tenderness and occasional bleeding from the lesion.
• History of sun exposure and previous skin lesions.

Objective:

• Physical examination reveals a 2 cm ulcerated lesion on the right lower limb.
• No lymphadenopathy noted in the groin area.
• Dermatoscopic examination shows atypical keratinocytes.

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 Squamous cell carcinoma skin/ right lower limb, inc hip (ICD-10 Code C44.722)

Assessment:

• Diagnosis: Squamous cell carcinoma of the skin, right lower limb, inc hip, moderate severity.
• ICD-10 Code: C44.722.
• Contributing factors include significant sun exposure and history of skin lesions.

Plan:

• Refer for surgical excision of the lesion.
• Educate patient on sun protection and skin monitoring.
• Schedule follow-up appointment in 4-6 weeks to assess healing and recurrence.

Treatment & Plan Section for ICD-10 Code C44.722 – Squamous cell carcinoma skin/ right lower limb, inc hip

• Surgical excision is the primary treatment for localized SCC.
• Topical chemotherapy may be considered for superficial lesions.
• Regular skin examinations are essential for early detection of new lesions.
• Patient education on sun protection and skin care is crucial.

Using ICD-10 Code C44.722 for Squamous cell carcinoma skin/ right lower limb, inc hip in Billing & SOAP Note Compliance

• Ensure accurate documentation of symptoms and clinical findings in the Subjective (S) and Objective (O) sections.
• Use C44.722 in conjunction with relevant CPT codes for surgical procedures.
• Maintain compliance with clinical guidelines to support justified billing.
• Document follow-up care and patient education efforts to enhance continuity of care.

Related ICD-10 Codes Often Used with Squamous cell carcinoma skin/ right lower limb, inc hip

• C44.721 – Squamous cell carcinoma skin/ left lower limb, inc hip
• C44.729 – Squamous cell carcinoma skin, unspecified site
• C43.9 – Melanoma skin, unspecified

ICD-10 Code C44.722 in Medical Billing and Insurance for Squamous cell carcinoma skin/ right lower limb, inc hip

ICD-10 Code C44.722 is critical in medical billing, particularly in hospital, emergency room, or oncology settings.

Billing Notes:

• Document all relevant clinical findings and treatment plans to support the use of C44.722.
• Ensure that the code is used in appropriate settings, such as outpatient and inpatient care.
• Include key elements in the chart, such as patient history and treatment rationale.

Common CPT Pairings: