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ICD 10 Code for Skin Tag: Understanding Billable and Non-Billable Codes

ICD-10 Code for Skin Tags

Skin tags are small, soft lumps that hang from the skin. They are usually harmless, but they can get irritated or bleed if rubbed against clothes or jewelry. Some people decide to remove skin tags for cosmetic reasons, while others may need to remove them for medical reasons, especially if they are often irritated or bleed. It is important for healthcare providers to use the correct ICD 10 code for skin tag removal. when removing skin tags. Using the wrong code can cause insurance companies to deny claims or delay payments. Insurance companies typically don’t cover skin tag removal if it’s just for appearance. The procedure must be medically necessary.

It can be hard to find the right ICD-10 code for skin tag because other skin conditions may look like skin tags but aren’t the same. These conditions should not use the ICD-10-CM L91.8 code or any other ICD 10 for skin tag.

The ICD-10-CM L91.8 code is usually used for other skin problems that are similar to skin tags when there isn’t a clear diagnosis of a skin tag. Healthcare providers need to know the right ICD-10 codes for skin conditions so they can code correctly and get paid on time.

Skin Tag ICD-10 Code List

Skin Tag Location/ConditionICD-10 CodeReason/ExplanationBillable/Unbillable
NeckL91.8Skin tags in the neck area are categorized as hypertrophic skin conditions.Billable
IrritatedL91.8When skin tags become irritated, they are classified under other hypertrophic skin conditions.Billable
InflamedL98.8Inflamed skin tags are coded under “Other specified skin conditions.”Billable
EyelidD23.9Benign skin growths, including skin tags on the eyelid, are coded as skin neoplasms.Billable
FaceD23.9Skin tags on the face are classified under unspecified benign neoplasms of the skin.Billable
Left AxillaL91.8Skin tags in the axilla area fall under hypertrophic skin disorders.Billable
BleedingL98.8When skin tags bleed, they are coded under other specified skin disorders.Billable
RectalK64.4Skin tags in the rectal region are commonly classified as residual hemorrhoidal tags.Billable
GenitalL98.8Skin tags found in the genital area are considered other specified skin disorders.Billable
UnspecifiedD23.9Unspecified skin tags are categorized as unclassified benign skin growths.Billable
LabialL98.8Skin tags on the labia are classified under “Other specified skin conditions.”Billable
GroinL91.8Skin tags in the groin are included under hypertrophic skin disorders.Billable
BackD23.9Benign skin growths on the back, including skin tags, are coded as unspecified.Billable
PerianalK64.4Perianal skin tags are often residual tags from hemorrhoids.Billable
EarD23.9Skin tags on the ear are classified under unspecified benign neoplasms of the skin.Billable
AnusK64.4Skin tags around the anus are typically residual hemorrhoidal skin tags.Billable

This article provides a straightforward summary of common ICD 10 for skin tag. It offers clear clinical details and indicates whether each code is billable. This guide can assist healthcare providers in selecting the correct code for their patients’ conditions and increase the likelihood of timely reimbursement.

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ICD 10 Code for Skin Tag That Are Billable

There are several ICD 10 codes available for billing the removal of skin tags that are symptomatic or medically necessary. The valid ICD 10 codes for this purpose include L91.8, which covers other specified hypertrophic skin disorders, and L98.8, which is used for other specified skin and subcutaneous tissue disorders. By using these codes along with the correct CPT code, healthcare providers can be reimbursed for medically necessary skin tag removal procedures.

Billable icd 10 code for skin tag

Below are the billable ICD 10 code for skin tag:

ICD 10 L91.8 — Other hypertrophic disorders of the skin

The ICD 10 code L91.8 refers to “Other hypertrophic disorders of the skin.” This code is used when documenting skin tags, especially when a more specific code is not available. It covers various skin conditions that involve overgrowth, such as skin tags.

It’s important to understand that ICD 10 L91.8 is a general code. Healthcare providers should aim to use more specific ICD 10 codes when possible. However, when a more detailed diagnosis is not available, L91.8 is a useful code for documenting and billing skin tag-related visits.

When using ICD 10 L91.8 code for skin tag, it’s essential to provide clear documentation in the patient’s medical records. This should include a description of the skin tags, their location, and any associated symptoms. Detailed notes not only support the use of this code but also help in communicating with other healthcare professionals involved in the patient’s care.

D23.9 — Benign Neoplasm of Skin, Unspecified

Another ICD 10 for skin tag is D23.9, which stands for “Benign neoplasm of skin, unspecified.” This code can be used for any benign skin growth, including skin tags. If a patient present with a skin tag, this code can be used for diagnosis. If the skin tag is removed, both the diagnosis and the procedure can be billed using this code.

Billing with ICD 10 codes like D23.9 for skin tag removal is straightforward:

  1. Diagnose the skin tag using D23.9
  2. Bill for the diagnostic exam with D23.9
  3. If performing a removal, proceed with the procedure
  4. Bill for the skin tag removal using D23.9

The D23.9 code falls under the D22-D23 category, which includes benign neoplasms of the skin. By using this specific code, providers indicate to the payer that the diagnosis and treatment involved a benign skin growth, such as a skin tag.

L98.8 — Other Specified Disorders of the Skin and Subcutaneous Tissue

The ICD 10 code L98.8 is used for skin tag removal that do not fit into any specific category. This code helps medical coders document and bill for skin tag removal procedures.

It’s important to note that L98.8 covers a range of skin and tissue conditions, not just skin tags. Healthcare providers should ensure that both coding and documentation are accurate to use this code appropriately for skin tag removal.

When billing for skin tag removal with the L98.8 code, it is essential to also include the correct CPT code for the specific procedure performed. Using both the ICD 10 Codes and CPT codes together will ensure proper billing and payment for the services provided.

K64.4 — Residual Hemorrhoidal Skin Tags

Residual hemorrhoidal skin tags are pieces of loose skin that remain after hemorrhoids have been treated or resolved. These tags are not hemorrhoids themselves, but rather a result of the healing process. They can cause discomfort, irritation, and may require additional treatment or removal.

ICD 10 code K64.4 is used to document and bill for these residual hemorrhoidal skin tags. Since this code is billable, healthcare providers can use it to request payment for diagnosing and managing the condition.

If a patient has leftover skin tags after their hemorrhoids have been treated or resolved, the K64.4 code should be applied. This code is not to be used when active hemorrhoids or other issues with the rectum or anus are present.

When using the K64.4 code, healthcare providers must ensure that their documentation clearly indicates the presence of residual hemorrhoidal skin tags. Detailed notes should include the patient’s health history, findings from physical exams, and any relevant tests or procedures performed.

ICD 10 Code for Skin Tag that are Non-Billable

Unlike billable codes, there are also ICD 10 for skin tag that do not support the medical necessity for removal. These non-billable codes are used for skin tags removals that are asymptomatic and not causing any health issues.

Typically, the removal of skin tags for cosmetic reasons is not considered medically necessary, which makes it ineligible for insurance reimbursement. However, providers can inform patients with asymptomatic skin tags about cosmetic removal options, which may be paid out-of-pocket if the patient chooses. Using non-billable skin tag code on claims is likely to result in denial of reimbursement.

Non Billable icd 10 code for skin tag

Below are the non-billable ICD 10 for skin tag:

L72.3 — Miliaria Rubra

One code that might seem relevant but is not billable for skin tags is L72.3, which refers to Miliaria Rubra, also known as prickly heat or heat rash. This condition involves small, raised bumps that may initially resemble skin tags.

Miliaria Rubra occurs when sweat glands become blocked, trapping perspiration under the skin. It is commonly seen in hot and humid environments or after excessive sweating. The condition usually presents as clusters of red, itchy bumps or blisters.

The ICD 10 coding system is designed to accurately document medical conditions, procedures, and diagnoses. Each code corresponds to a specific condition or symptom group, ensuring proper billing and reimbursement for healthcare services.

However, L72.3 (Miliaria Rubra) is used to document heat rash, not skin tags. Since these two conditions are distinct, this code is not appropriate for skin tag diagnoses.

L91.0 — Hypertrophic Scar

ICD 10 code L91.0 is for hypertrophic scars, a topic that often comes up for medical coders. This code refers to skin conditions under the ICD 10 system.

Hypertrophic scars are thick, raised scars that can form after an injury, burn, surgery, or skin inflammation. These scars occur when the body produces too much collagen during the healing process, causing the scar tissue to grow beyond the normal size.

Although hypertrophic scars may resemble skin tags, they are different. Skin tags are small, soft, and harmless growths that hang from a thin stalk.

L91.0 is specifically for hypertrophic scars, not skin tags. Providers should understand that hypertrophic scars are part of the natural healing process, so this code is not applicable for skin tags and cannot be used for billing or reimbursement.

L72.0 — Epidermal Cyst

ICD 10 code L72.0 refers to epidermal cysts, which are useful for documentation but cannot be used for billing when treating skin tags. If a healthcare provider identifies a skin tag as an epidermal cyst, which is a type of cyst filled with keratin and covered by skin cells, they might document the condition using the L72.0 code.

While the L72.0 code accurately reflects the clinical impression, it is not billable. Skin tags are typically considered a cosmetic concern rather than a medical issue. Additionally, since epidermal cysts can form anywhere on the body and are not exclusive to skin tag-like growths, the L72.0 code remains non-specific and not suitable for billing purposes.

Billable vs Non Billable icd 10 code for skin tag

Key Points about Skin Tags

  1. Skin tags are small, soft growths that appear on the skin. They are usually harmless and can show up anywhere on the body. These growths are soft and smooth, typically light brown or slightly darker in color.
  2. Common areas where skin tags can develop include the neck, armpits, groin, eyelids, underarms, anal region, and lower torso. Skin tags are painless unless they are constantly rubbed by clothing or jewelry.
  3. They are more common in middle-aged or older individuals, as well as those who are overweight or obese. Skin tags can form due to factors like hormonal changes during pregnancy or certain medical conditions such as diabetes.
  4. Although skin tags are harmless and cannot spread to others, some people choose to remove them for comfort, cosmetic reasons, or medical needs. However, insurance typically does not cover skin tag removal if it’s only for cosmetic purposes.
  5. Doctors may remove skin tags through procedures like cauterization, freezing with liquid nitrogen, or using sterile scissors. It’s important to note that skin tags are different from moles, warts, or cysts, and each condition requires distinct treatment and diagnosis methods.

FAQs For ICD 10 Code for Skin Tags

How to code ICD 10 for skin tags?

Coding for skin tags can be difficult due to the variety of codes and similar conditions. The coding team must understand skin tag types, documentation, medical necessity, modifiers, and AAPC guidelines. In-house teams may struggle, leading to claim denials and lost revenue. Outsourcing to third-party medical coding services can help prevent these issues.

What are other names for skin tags?

Skin tags are also referred to by several other names, such as acrochordons, fibroepithelial polyps, soft fibromas, cutaneous papillomas, and skin tabs. These terms are used interchangeably to describe the same type of skin growth.

Do insurance companies pay for skin tag removal?

Coverage for skin tag removal can vary. Insurance companies usually do not cover the procedure if it’s purely cosmetic. However, if the removal is medically necessary due to discomfort or other health concerns, insurance may cover the cost.

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