Epidermoid Cyst

Question:

My physician removed an epidermoid cyst and I am not certain how to code this. What CPT code is used for the removal of a 1.2 cm epidermoid cyst on the scalp that is removed through a small linear incision, is dissected and removed in total. I think I should use the I&D code 10060 but I am not sure. Can you help?

Answer:

Thank you for your question. Because the cyst was removed through a small linear incision, dissected free and removed in total (en bloc) from the scalp, this meets the definition of a benign lesion excision not an incision and drainage (I&D). The correct CPT code based on the 1.2cm size and anatomic location is 11422 (Excision, benign lesion including margins, except skin tag (unless listed elsewhere), scalp, neck, hands, feet, genitalia; excised diameter 1.1 to 2.0 cm).

*This response is based on the best information available as of 03/05/26.