Melanocytic nevi of right upper limb, including shoulder

This code signifies the presence of a melanocytic nevus, commonly known as a mole, located specifically on the patient's right upper extremity, encompassing the shoulder region. These are benign proliferations of melanocytes, which are the pigment-producing cells of the skin.

Use this code when documentation clearly identifies a benign melanocytic nevus on the right arm or shoulder. This applies to initial diagnoses, follow-up for monitoring, or prior to excision of such a lesion. The medical record should specify the anatomical location as the right upper limb or shoulder.

• Ensure the documentation specifies "right" upper limb; laterality is crucial for accurate coding.
• Distinguish from malignant melanoma (C43.-) or atypical nevi (D48.5) through pathology reports or physician documentation.
• If multiple nevi are present on the right upper limb, this single code is generally sufficient unless specific characteristics of individual nevi warrant additional detail.