Malignant melanoma of skin of lip

This code signifies a cancerous tumor originating from melanocytes (pigment-producing cells) located on the skin of the lip. It represents a serious form of skin cancer that can spread if not detected and treated early. The malignancy specifically affects the external skin surface of the lip, distinguishing it from melanoma of the vermilion border or internal mucosal surfaces.

Use this code when documentation clearly states a diagnosis of malignant melanoma affecting the skin of the lip. This diagnosis is typically confirmed by biopsy and pathology reports. Supporting documentation should specify the lip as the primary site and confirm the malignant nature of the melanoma.

• Differentiate carefully between melanoma of the skin of the lip and melanoma of the vermilion border or oral mucosa, which have different ICD-9-CM codes.
• Ensure the pathology report confirms malignancy; do not use for benign nevi or dysplastic lesions.
• Consider sequencing this code as the primary diagnosis when it is the reason for the encounter, especially for treatment or workup of the melanoma.