ICD-10 Code C44.61 – Basal cell carcinoma of skin of upper limb, including shoulder (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code C44.61 – Basal cell carcinoma of skin of upper limb, including shoulder
What it is
C44.61 identifies basal cell carcinoma located on the skin of the upper limb, including the shoulder. Use it when documentation specifies this nonmelanoma skin cancer at that site.
Clinical signs
Typical findings include a slowly enlarging pearly or translucent lesion, rolled borders, surface ulceration, or bleeding. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation.
When to use this code
Use C44.61 when the provider documents basal cell carcinoma on the arm, forearm, hand, or shoulder skin. It is appropriate for confirmed diagnoses, pathology-supported cases, or clear clinical documentation of the site. If the exact site is unclear, check documentation.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for melanoma, squamous cell carcinoma, or basal cell carcinoma at another skin site. Do not use it when the lesion is only suspected or not documented as malignant.
Coding tip
Verify both the histology and the anatomic site before assigning C44.61.