Skin Tags ICD-10-CM Codes

What ICD-10 codes are used for skin tags?

Healthcare providers utilize specific ICD-10-CM codes to accurately diagnose and bill skin tags, which are common benign growths on the skin's surface. These small, harmless growths, also known as soft fibromas, cutaneous papillomas, skin tabs, or acrochordons, often appear as raised bumps on the skin. Accurate coding is critical for proper documentation and reimbursement.

Here are some commonly used ICD 10 codes for skin tags, along with brief clinical descriptions for each:

L91.8: Other hypertrophic disorders of the skin

This is the most commonly used code for skin tags, especially when they appear as soft growths or cutaneous papillomas on areas like the neck, eyelids, armpits, or groin. It falls under the category of hypertrophic skin disorders, which includes abnormal thickening or overgrowth of skin and subcutaneous tissue.

L91.9: Hypertrophic disorders of skin, unspecified

This code is used when a specific skin tag diagnosis is not documented. It serves as a more general code under disorders of the skin and is often considered when medical records lack detail.

K64.4: Residual hemorrhoidal skin tags

This specific code applies when residual skin tags remain after the resolution or treatment of hemorrhoids. Located in the anus or perianal region, these tags are considered part of other specified disorders in the skin and subcutaneous tissue around the rectum.

K64.4 supports documentation for patients undergoing evaluation or removal of skin tags in this region due to discomfort, hygiene issues, or related symptoms.

D23.9: Benign neoplasm of skin, unspecified

This code applies to benign neoplasms of skin unspecified and is sometimes used for unspecified skin tags when providers describe them as non-cancerous tumors or soft fibromas without identifying them as classic hypertrophic growths.

Though not the first-line code for skin tags, D23.9 may be appropriate when medical professionals determine that the skin tag has features of a benign neoplasm, especially if located in atypical areas or associated with other skin conditions.

Which are billable ICD 10 codes for skin tags? 

The primary ICD-10 codes billable for skin tags include:

• L91.8: Other hypertrophic disorders of skin
• L91.9: Hypertrophic disorders, unspecified
• K64.4: Residual hemorrhoidal skin tags
• D23.9: Benign neoplasm of skin, unspecified

Although the following codes are related to skin or nail conditions, they are not appropriate for billing skin tags. These codes pertain to other specific diagnoses and do not accurately represent skin tags as the primary condition:

• L91.0: Hypertrophic scar
• L60.1: Onychogryphosis
• L72.0: Epidermal cyst
• L91.1: Keloid scar
• L90.8: Other atrophic disorders of the skin

Providers must differentiate skin tags from other conditions to ensure accurate coding.

Clinical information

Skin tags are common benign growths, medically known as acrochordons. They present as small, soft growths attached to the skin by a narrow stalk. They are frequently seen around the neck, underarms, groin, or eyelids, but facial skin tags are also common. They are typically painless and considered generally harmless but can occasionally cause discomfort if irritated.

Common causes include friction, genetics, obesity, pregnancy, hormonal changes, and certain medical conditions, although many tags arise spontaneously.

While skin tags are often removed for cosmetic reasons, removing skin tags may be medically necessary if multiple skin tags cause pain, irritation, bleeding, or other related symptoms."

Synonyms include:

• Acrochordon
• Cutaneous papillomas
• Soft fibromas
• Residual hemorrhoidal skin tags
• Common benign skin growths