ICD-10 Code C44.611 – Basal cell carcinoma of skin of unspecified upper limb, including shoulder (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code C44.611 – Basal cell carcinoma of skin of unspecified upper limb, including shoulder
What it is
This code identifies basal cell carcinoma arising on the skin of an upper limb, including the shoulder, when the exact side is not specified. Use it for a documented primary skin cancer of this location.
Clinical signs
Basal cell carcinoma often appears as a slowly growing pearly or waxy papule, a persistent nonhealing lesion, or an area that may bleed easily. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation.
When to use this code
Use C44.611 when the record clearly states basal cell carcinoma of the skin on an upper limb or shoulder and does not specify right or left. It also fits pathology-confirmed or clinician-documented cases at this site. Check documentation if the lesion is described more generally or with another anatomic site.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for basal cell carcinoma on a specified arm or shoulder side when a more specific code is available. Do not use it for other skin cancers or for suspicious lesions without a confirmed diagnosis.
Coding tip
Verify both histology and site wording, and choose the unspecified-lateral code only when laterality is not documented.