Squamous cell carcinoma of skin of lip

This code signifies a malignant neoplasm originating from the squamous cells of the epidermis, specifically located on the lip. It represents a type of non-melanoma skin cancer characterized by uncontrolled growth of abnormal squamous cells.

Apply this code when documentation explicitly states a diagnosis of squamous cell carcinoma affecting any part of the lip. Supporting documentation includes pathology reports confirming squamous cell carcinoma and physician notes specifying the lip as the primary site.

• Ensure the documentation clearly specifies "squamous cell carcinoma" and not another type of skin cancer.
• Verify the exact anatomical site is the "lip" and not an adjacent facial structure.
• Consider sequencing this code as the primary diagnosis when it is the reason for the encounter, followed by any relevant secondary conditions.