Malignant neoplasm of external upper lip

This code signifies a primary cancerous tumor originating on the external portion of the upper lip. This malignancy typically arises from the squamous cells of the skin, presenting as a lesion, ulcer, or nodule.

Apply this code when documentation confirms a primary malignant neoplasm affecting the vermilion border or cutaneous part of the upper lip. Supporting documentation includes pathology reports confirming malignancy and physician notes specifying the tumor's location on the external upper lip.

• Differentiate from internal lip involvement; this code is strictly for the external upper lip.
• Ensure the documentation specifies "malignant" and "primary" to avoid miscoding benign or secondary lesions.
• Consider laterality if specified, though this particular code does not differentiate left/right.