Melanoma of skin, site unspecified

This code signifies a malignant tumor originating from melanocytes, the pigment-producing cells of the skin, where the specific anatomical location of the primary tumor is not documented. It represents the most serious type of skin cancer due to its potential for metastasis.

Use this code when a diagnosis of melanoma of the skin is confirmed, but the medical record lacks specific details regarding the primary site (e.g., trunk, limb, face). Documentation supporting its use would include pathology reports confirming melanoma without site specification, or physician notes indicating melanoma of the skin with no further anatomical detail.

• Avoid using this code if any specific anatomical site of the melanoma is documented; instead, use a more precise code from the 172.x series.
• Always query the physician for a more specific site if possible, as this improves data granularity and may impact treatment planning.
• This code should be sequenced as the primary diagnosis when the melanoma is the reason for the encounter.