L821 - Non-cancerous skin growths that appear as brown, black, or tan raised spots, typically found on the chest, back, shoulders, or face
International Classification of Diseases
What is a ICD-10 Code?
ICD-10 (International Classification of Diseases, 10th Revision) codes are used to classify and code all diagnoses, symptoms, and procedures recorded in association with hospital care. These codes provide a standardized way to track health conditions and their treatment outcomes.
Detailed Description
Seborrheic keratoses are common, harmless skin growths that look like waxy, scaly, or slightly raised patches on your skin. They can range in color from light tan to dark brown or black, and may appear 'stuck on' to the skin surface. These growths are very common as people age and are sometimes called 'wisdom spots' or 'barnacles.' While they can look concerning, they are benign (non-cancerous) and don't require treatment unless they become irritated, cosmetically bothersome, or change in appearance. This particular code refers to seborrheic keratoses that don't fit into other specific categories.
Additional Information
These are age-related benign skin growths that typically don't require treatment. However, any sudden changes in appearance should be evaluated by a healthcare provider to rule out skin cancer.
Category
Dermatology/Skin Conditions
Medical Specialty
Dermatology, Family Medicine, Internal Medicine
Expected Costs
We expect this to normally be in the range of:
$150 - $400
This is an estimate based on typical billing patterns. Your actual cost may vary depending on your insurance coverage, provider location, and specific circumstances.
What's Required Before This
- Physical examination
- Possible dermoscopy or biopsy if appearance is atypical
What to Expect After
- Monitor for changes in size, color, or texture
- Annual skin checks recommended
- Return if growths become irritated or bleed
Why Understanding This Code Matters
On Your Medical Bill
This code appears on your medical bills to identify the specific service, procedure, drug, or medical diagnosis you received. Understanding what it means helps you verify you're being charged correctly and know what to expect.
For Your Health
Knowing what this code represents helps you understand your treatment plan, ask better questions during appointments, and track your healthcare journey more effectively.
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