Skin Tags ICD-10-CM Codes

Discover the definitive ICD-10-CM codes for skin tags. Ensure accurate medical coding with the latest guidelines. Simplify classification now!

By Jamie Frew on Feb 29, 2024.

Fact Checked by Nate Lacson.

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Skin Tags ICD-10-CM Codes

What ICD-10 Codes are Used for Skin Tags 

Skin tags, also known as acrochordons, are common benign growths that often appear on the skin's surface. They are typically small, flesh-colored, or slightly darker and have a soft, smooth texture. Skin tags can occur in various areas of the body, including the neck, armpits, groin, eyelids, and under the breasts. To accurately code skin tags in medical records, healthcare professionals utilize the ICD codes. Here are some commonly used Skin Tags ICD Codes, along with brief clinical descriptions for each:

L91.8 - Other hypertrophic disorders of the skin

This code encompasses various hypertrophic skin conditions, including skin tags. It is used when a specific skin tag diagnosis is unavailable.

D23.9 - Benign neoplasm of skin, unspecified

This code is utilized when the skin tag is explicitly identified as a benign neoplasm. It is a general code for benign skin tumors that are not classified further.

L72.3 - Miliaria rubra

Miliaria rubra, or prickly heat, can occasionally present with small, raised bumps resembling skin tags. This code is used when the skin tags are associated with this specific condition.

L98.8 - Other specified disorders of the skin and subcutaneous tissue

This code is employed when a specific diagnosis for the skin tags does not fall under any other designated category.

L91.0 - Hypertrophic scar

Occasionally, skin tags may develop as a result of hypertrophic scarring. This code is appropriate when the skin tags are associated with this type of scar formation.

L60.1 - Onychogryphosis

Onychogryphosis, characterized by abnormal thickening and curving of the nails, can sometimes be accompanied by skin tags in the surrounding skin. This code is used when the skin tags are associated with this nail condition.

L72.0 - Epidermal cyst

Skin tags can resemble epidermal cysts, particularly in regions prone to cyst formation. This code is used when the skin tags are identified as epidermal cysts.

L91.1 - Keloid scar

Although uncommon, skin tags may be observed in keloid scars. This code is employed when the skin tags are associated with keloid scar tissue.

L91.2 - Hypertrophic scar

Similar to code L91.0, this code is used when the skin tags are associated with hypertrophic scar tissue but are distinct from keloid scarring.

L90.8 - Other atrophic disorders of the skin

In some cases, skin tags may be seen in atrophic skin areas. This code is used when the skin tags are associated with atrophic skin conditions not covered by other specific codes.

Which Skin Tags ICD codes are Billable: 

L91.8 - Other hypertrophic disorders of the skin:

Yes. This code is billable as it specifically includes hypertrophic disorders of the skin, which encompasses skin tags as one of the manifestations. It provides a specific code for coding skin tags when a more specific diagnosis is unavailable.

D23.9 - Benign neoplasm of skin, unspecified:

Yes. This code is billable as it covers benign neoplasms of the skin, including skin tags. When skin tags are explicitly identified as benign neoplasms, this code can be used to bill for their presence.

L72.3 - Miliaria rubra: 

No. This code is not billable for skin tags. Miliaria rubra refers to prickly heat, which can occasionally present with small raised bumps resembling skin tags. However, skin tags are not the primary focus of this code, and billing for skin tags under this code may not accurately represent the diagnosis.

L98.8 - Other specified disorders of the skin and subcutaneous tissue:

Yes. This code is billable, covering various specified skin and subcutaneous tissue disorders, including skin tags. It is used when a specific diagnosis for skin tags falls outside of other designated categories.

L91.0 - Hypertrophic scar:

No. This code is not billable for skin tags. It is specific to hypertrophic scars rather than skin tags themselves. Although skin tags can occasionally be associated with hypertrophic scarring, billing for skin tags under this code may not accurately reflect the diagnosis.

L60.1 - Onychogryphosis:

No. This code is not billable for skin tags. Onychogryphosis refers to abnormal thickening and curving of the nails, sometimes accompanied by skin tags in the surrounding skin. However, skin tags are not the primary focus of this code, and billing for skin tags under this code may not accurately represent the diagnosis.

L72.0 - Epidermal cyst:

No. This code is not billable for skin tags. It is specific to epidermal cysts rather than skin tags. Although skin tags can resemble epidermal cysts, billing for skin tags under this code may not accurately reflect the diagnosis.

L91.1 - Keloid scar:

No. This code is not billable for skin tags. It is specific to keloid scars rather than skin tags. Although skin tags can occasionally be observed in keloid scars, billing for skin tags under this code may not accurately represent the diagnosis.

L91.2 - Hypertrophic scar:

No. This code is not billable for skin tags. It is specific to hypertrophic scars rather than skin tags. Although skin tags can be associated with hypertrophic scar tissue, billing for skin tags under this code may not accurately reflect the diagnosis.

L90.8 - Other atrophic disorders of the skin:

No. This code is not billable for skin tags. It covers other atrophic disorders of the skin but is not specific to skin tags. Billing for skin tags under this code may not accurately represent the diagnosis.

Clinical Information

  • Skin tags, also known as acrochordons, are common benign growths that typically appear on the skin's surface.
  • They are usually small, flesh-colored, or slightly darker and have a soft, smooth texture.
  • Skin tags can occur in various body areas, including the neck, armpits, groin, eyelids, and under the breasts.
  • They are non-cancerous and generally do not cause symptoms or pain unless irritated or rubbed against clothing or jewelry.
  • Skin tags are more prevalent in middle-aged and older adults and individuals who are overweight or obese.
  • Hormonal changes during pregnancy and certain medical conditions like diabetes can also contribute to their development.
  • They are harmless and not contagious, but some individuals may opt for their removal for cosmetic or comfort reasons.
  • Common methods for removing skin tags include snipping with sterile scissors, freezing with liquid nitrogen, or cauterization.
  • Insurance generally does not cover skin tags when removal is purely for cosmetic purposes.
  • It is important to differentiate skin tags from other skin conditions, such as moles, warts, or cysts, as the treatment and management may differ.
  • Regular self-examinations of the skin can help identify new or changing skin tags and facilitate early detection of any abnormal growths.

Synonyms Include:

  • Acrochordons
  • Fibroepithelial polyps
  • Soft fibromas
  • Cutaneous papillomas
  • Skin tabs
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Commonly asked questions

Can I get insurance coverage for the removal of skin tags?

Insurance coverage for the removal of skin tags may vary. In many cases, removal for purely cosmetic purposes may not be covered. However, insurance coverage may be available if skin tags are causing significant discomfort or medical necessity.

Can I self-diagnose skin tags and use ICD codes?

It is recommended to consult a healthcare professional to diagnose skin tags accurately. They can assess the condition and provide appropriate documentation and coding based on the ICD-10-CM guidelines.

How can I ensure the accurate coding of skin tags?

To ensure accurate coding of skin tags, it is important to follow the ICD-10-CM guidelines and documentation requirements. Healthcare professionals should provide specific clinical descriptions and associated diagnoses when assigning the appropriate ICD code.

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