CPT Code 11102: Tangential Biopsy of Skin; Single Lesion

What is a tangential skin biopsy?

CPT code 11102 describes a tangential biopsy of a single skin lesion, typically using a shave, scoop, or curette technique. It involves removing a superficial epidermal and possibly dermal tissue sample for histopathologic evaluation. Commonly used for pigmented or premalignant lesions, this skin biopsy is performed by a physician or other qualified healthcare professional. It differs from excision or punch biopsy because it does not remove the entire lesion. CPT 11102 is an active code that is the primary code when only one lesion is biopsied.

When multiple procedures are performed during the same visit, skin biopsy codes like 11102 must be supported by accurate documentation. If a tangential biopsy is provided along with a distinct E/M service on the same day, Modifier -25 should be appended to the E/M code to indicate that it is separately reportable.

Documentation requirements

Accurate documentation is essential when healthcare providers report CPT code 11102 for a tangential biopsy to support medical necessity, ensure compliance with coding guidelines, and promote proper revenue cycle management. Key elements include:

• Anatomic location, size, and clinical indication of the skin lesion biopsied (e.g., suspected malignant lesion or benign lesion).
• The biopsy technique used, such as shave, scoop, or curette, as described in the CPT manual for skin biopsy codes.
• Anesthesia type administered during the procedure, if any, and patient response.
• Patient tolerance and post-procedure instructions, especially if wound care or follow-up is required.
• Confirmation that biopsy tissue was submitted to pathology, with separate billing using CPT 88305 when applicable.
• If multiple procedures are performed or a separately identifiable evaluation and management service occurs on the same day, document clearly and consider appending Modifier 59 to reflect a distinct procedural service or use Modifier -25 for E/M with procedures.

Proper documentation helps qualified healthcare professionals meet payer requirements, especially for Medicare Administrative Contractors, Medicaid services, and private insurers reviewing skin biopsy CPT codes like 11102.

Billing guidelines

CPT code 11102 should only be reported for a tangential biopsy of the first lesion. When multiple biopsies are performed using the same technique on different lesions, use add-on code +11103 for each additional lesion. These biopsy codes are intended for diagnostic sampling of epidermal tissue and possibly the underlying dermis, typically using a sharp blade, scoop, or curette.

Do not use 11102 for punch biopsy or incisional biopsy procedures, which involve deeper tissue sampling and possibly the subcutaneous layer. For those, refer to CPT codes 11104–11107, which are designated for punch and incisional techniques. Likewise, do not confuse 11102 with shave removal codes, which apply to therapeutic removal rather than diagnostic purposes.

Correct code selection based on technique, number of lesions, and skin conditions ensures proper billing when a physician or other qualified healthcare professional performs biopsies.