11102

Tangential Biopsy of Skin (Single Lesion)

Code Description

CPT code 11102 is used to report a tangential biopsy of a single skin lesion. During the procedure, a provider removes a superficial sample of skin using techniques such as shave, scoop, saucerization, or curette biopsy.

The tissue sample is sent for pathological examination to help diagnose skin conditions or suspicious lesions.

When to Use 11102

Common examples include:

suspicious skin lesions
changing moles
abnormal skin growths
evaluation of possible skin cancer

Documentation Requirements

Documentation should include:

lesion location
reason for biopsy
biopsy technique used
specimen submitted for pathology
patient tolerance of procedure

Common Billing Mistakes

Common billing mistakes include:

confusing biopsy with lesion removal
incorrect lesion counting
insufficient documentation
reporting the wrong biopsy technique

Related CPT Codes

11103- Each Additional Lesion

11400- Excision of Benign Skin Lesion

11104- Punch Biopsy of Skin

FAQ

What is CPT code 11102?

CPT 11102 describes a tangential biopsy of a single skin lesion.

Is the lesion completely removed?

Not necessarily. The primary purpose is obtaining tissue for diagnosis.

Is pathology included?

The specimen is typically sent for pathological examination.

Procedure Type

Skin Biopsy

Lesion Type

CPT Range

Single Lesion

11102-11107