ICD-10 Code C44.31 – Basal cell carcinoma of skin of other and unspecified parts of face (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code C44.31 – Basal cell carcinoma of skin of other and unspecified parts of face
What it is
This code identifies basal cell carcinoma arising on facial skin outside the specifically listed sites, or when the facial location is not further specified. Use it for a confirmed malignant neoplasm of the skin on the face.
Clinical signs
Basal cell carcinoma often appears as a pearly or translucent papule, a nonhealing sore, or a lesion that bleeds easily. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation for the exact facial site and lesion description.
When to use this code
Use C44.31 when the provider documents basal cell carcinoma of the face but does not name a more specific facial subsite, such as eyelid, lip, ear, or nose. It also fits “other” facial areas when the lesion is clearly on the face. If pathology or the note specifies another skin site, code that site instead.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for basal cell carcinoma on nonfacial skin, or for facial sites with a more specific ICD-10 code. Do not apply it to benign lesions or when documentation does not confirm basal cell carcinoma.
Coding tip
Check the pathology and operative note for the exact facial location before assigning C44.31.