Merkel cell carcinoma of unsp eyelid, including canthus

Merkel cell carcinoma of unspecified eyelid, including canthus

AIClinical Context

Clinical Description

This code signifies a malignant neuroendocrine tumor, specifically Merkel cell carcinoma, originating in an unspecified eyelid or the canthus region. Merkel cell carcinoma is an aggressive skin cancer characterized by rapid growth and a high metastatic potential.

When to Use

This code is appropriate when documentation confirms a diagnosis of Merkel cell carcinoma affecting any part of the eyelid or canthus, and the specific eyelid (e.g., upper, lower, right, left) is not specified. Use this code when the pathology report definitively identifies Merkel cell carcinoma.

Coding Tips

Ensure the pathology report explicitly states "Merkel cell carcinoma" and specifies an eyelid or canthus origin.
If the specific eyelid is documented (e.g., right upper eyelid), a more specific C4A.1- subcategory code should be used.
Do not confuse with other eyelid malignancies like basal cell carcinoma (C44.11-) or squamous cell carcinoma (C44.12-).

AI-generated reference. Verify against official guidelines.

Code Hierarchy

▲C4A.1Merkel cell carcinoma of eyelid, including canthus

C4A.10(current)

Crosswalks

209.31ApproxICD-9

Same Category

C4AMerkel cell carcinoma C4A.0Merkel cell carcinoma of lip C4A.1Merkel cell carcinoma of eyelid, including canthus C4A.11Merkel cell carcinoma of right eyelid, including canthus C4A.111