ICD-10 Code D22.2 – Melanocytic nevi of ear and external auricular canal (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code D22.2 – Melanocytic nevi of ear and external auricular canal
What it is
This code identifies a benign melanocytic nevus located on the ear or in the external auricular canal. Use it for a mole or similar pigmented skin lesion documented in that site.
Clinical signs
Clinical features vary; refer to documentation. Typical notes describe a well-defined pigmented lesion on the ear, sometimes raised or flat, without evidence of malignancy.
When to use this code
Use D22.2 when the provider documents a melanocytic nevus specifically on the ear or external auricular canal. It also fits follow-up visits for a known benign nevus when no excision or cancer diagnosis is reported. Check documentation if the site is described only as “skin of ear” without further detail.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for malignant melanoma, dysplastic nevus, or other non-melanocytic skin lesions. If the lesion site is uncertain or not clearly on the ear, check documentation.
Coding tip
Confirm the exact anatomic site in the record before assigning D22.2.