Use of Modifier 58 for Dermatology

The most common use of modifier 58 in dermatology is for re-excision of a lesion because the margins weren’t clear, based on the pathology report.

Benign and malignant excisional biopsies have a 10 day global period. If the patient returns for a re-excision, the same code may be reported again, or a code for a larger excision size in the same location.

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Last revised February 8, 2021 - Betsy Nicoletti
Tags: Dermatology, modifiers

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In 1988, CodingIntel.com founder Betsy Nicoletti started a Medical Services Organization for a rural hospital, supporting physician practice. She has been a self-employed consultant since 1998. She estimates that in the last 20 years her audience members number over 28,400 at in person events and webinars. She has had 2,500 meetings with clinical providers and reviewed over 43,000 medical notes. She knows what questions need answers and developed this resource to answer those questions. For more about Betsy visit www.betsynicoletti.com.