Basal cell carcinoma of skin of nose

This code identifies a malignant neoplasm originating from the basal cells of the epidermis, specifically located on the nose. It represents the most common type of skin cancer, characterized by slow growth and rare metastasis.

Use this code when documentation confirms a diagnosis of basal cell carcinoma affecting any part of the nose (e.g., bridge, tip, ala). This diagnosis is typically established through biopsy and histopathological examination.

• Ensure the documentation explicitly states "basal cell carcinoma" and specifies the "nose" as the anatomical site.
• Do not confuse with squamous cell carcinoma or melanoma of the nose; these have distinct codes.
• Consider additional codes for laterality if specified (e.g., right, left, bilateral), though C44.311 does not require it.