Dermatology Documentation

Dermatology SOAP Notes: Complete Guide 2026

Master dermatology documentation with comprehensive templates, ABCDE melanoma criteria, lesion terminology, dermoscopy findings, procedure documentation, and clinical examples for skin cancer and common conditions.

Dermatology SOAP notes documentation

6 Full Examples

Acne, Psoriasis, Melanoma, BCC

ABCDE
Melanoma Screening
20+
Lesion Descriptors
Dermoscopy
Documentation Guide
ICD-10
Dermatology Codes

Dermatology SOAP Note Structure

Each section captures specific dermatologic information essential for diagnosis and treatment

S

Subjective

Patient-reported skin concerns, symptom timeline, and dermatologic history

Key Elements:

  • Chief complaint (lesion location, appearance, symptoms)
  • Onset and duration of skin condition
  • Symptom timeline (stable, growing, changing)
  • Associated symptoms (itching, pain, bleeding, discharge)
  • Previous treatments attempted and results
  • Personal history of skin cancer or conditions
  • Family history of skin cancer or genetic conditions
  • Sun exposure history and tanning bed use
  • Occupational exposures
  • Current skincare regimen and allergies

Sample Phrases:

"Patient reports...""Lesion first noted...""Patient denies...""Previous treatment with...""Patient describes..."
O

Objective

Physical examination findings, lesion characteristics, and dermoscopy results

Key Elements:

  • Lesion location (anatomic site, body diagram)
  • Size in millimeters (length x width)
  • Primary morphology (macule, papule, plaque, etc.)
  • Color and pigmentation patterns
  • Border characteristics (well-defined, irregular)
  • Surface texture (smooth, scaly, crusted)
  • ABCDE criteria for suspicious lesions
  • Dermoscopy findings if performed
  • Distribution pattern (localized, scattered, symmetric)
  • Surrounding skin condition
  • Photography documentation reference

Sample Phrases:

Physical examination reveals...Dermoscopy demonstrates...Lesion measures...Well-defined plaque with...Irregular borders noted...
A

Assessment

Clinical diagnosis, differential diagnoses, and pathology correlation

Key Elements:

  • Primary diagnosis with ICD-10 code
  • Differential diagnoses considered
  • Clinical suspicion level for malignancy
  • Dermoscopic impression
  • Biopsy results correlation if available
  • Pathology concordance/discordance
  • Fitzpatrick skin type documentation
  • Risk stratification
  • Prognosis and recurrence risk

Sample Phrases:

Clinical diagnosis:Differential includes...Consistent with...Pathology confirms...Suspicious for...
P

Plan

Treatment plan, procedures, medications, and follow-up

Key Elements:

  • Treatment modality (topical, systemic, procedural)
  • Specific medications with strength and frequency
  • Procedures planned or performed
  • Biopsy technique and site
  • Excision margins and closure method
  • Pathology orders with clinical indication
  • Patient education provided
  • Sun protection counseling
  • Follow-up timing and skin checks
  • Referral to specialists if indicated

Sample Phrases:

Initiate treatment with...Perform punch biopsy...Wide local excision with...Apply cryotherapy...Follow up in...

Dermatology Lesion Terminology

Standardized morphologic descriptors for precise clinical documentation

1Primary Lesions

Macule

Flat, circumscribed discoloration <1cm

Examples: Freckle, cafรฉ au lait spot

Patch

Flat, circumscribed discoloration >1cm

Examples: Vitiligo, port wine stain

Papule

Elevated solid lesion <1cm

Examples: Nevus, wart, molluscum

Plaque

Elevated flat-topped lesion >1cm

Examples: Psoriasis, eczema

Nodule

Palpable solid lesion >1cm

Examples: Lipoma, dermatofibroma

Tumor

Large solid mass >2cm

Examples: Squamous cell carcinoma

Vesicle

Fluid-filled blister <1cm

Examples: Herpes simplex, chickenpox

Bulla

Fluid-filled blister >1cm

Examples: Bullous pemphigoid, burn

Pustule

Pus-filled lesion

Examples: Acne, folliculitis

Wheal

Transient edematous papule/plaque

Examples: Urticaria, insect bite

2Secondary Changes

Scale

Accumulation of stratum corneum

Examples: Psoriasis, seborrheic dermatitis

Crust

Dried serum, blood, or pus

Examples: Impetigo, healing wound

Erosion

Partial thickness epidermal loss

Examples: Ruptured vesicle

Ulcer

Full thickness epidermal loss

Examples: Venous stasis ulcer

Fissure

Linear crack in epidermis

Examples: Angular cheilitis, hand eczema

Lichenification

Thickening with enhanced skin markings

Examples: Chronic eczema

Excoriation

Linear erosion from scratching

Examples: Prurigo nodularis

Atrophy

Thinning of skin

Examples: Steroid-induced, aged skin

ABCDE Criteria for Melanoma Screening

Melanoma screening criteria for evaluating suspicious pigmented lesions

A

Asymmetry

One half does not match the other half

Scoring: Score 0 (symmetric) or 1-2 (asymmetric in 1 or 2 axes)

Dermoscopy: Asymmetry of color, structure, or pattern

B

Border

Irregular, scalloped, or poorly defined edges

Scoring: Score 0 (smooth) to 8 (irregular in all octants)

Dermoscopy: Abrupt edge cutoff, peripheral streaking

C

Color

Multiple colors or color variegation

Scoring: Score based on number of colors (brown, black, red, white, blue-gray)

Dermoscopy: Multiple colors, blue-white veil, regression structures

D

Diameter

Lesion >6mm (size of pencil eraser)

Scoring: Track diameter changes over time

Dermoscopy: Measure accurately with dermoscopy ruler

E

Evolving

Changing in size, shape, color, or symptoms

Scoring: Document all changes reported by patient

Dermoscopy: Compare to baseline images if available

Clinical Pearl

Any pigmented lesion meeting 2 or more ABCDE criteria warrants biopsy or close monitoring. The "E" (Evolving) criterion is particularly important - any changing lesion should be evaluated. Document baseline photography for comparison.

Dermoscopy Documentation

Key dermoscopic patterns and features to document in dermatology notes

Benign Patterns

Reticular pattern

Network of pigmented lines

Seen in: Benign nevi

Globular pattern

Round to oval structures

Seen in: Nevi, dermatofibromas

Homogeneous pattern

Uniform diffuse pigmentation

Seen in: Nevi, blue nevi

Starburst pattern

Radial streaks symmetrically

Seen in: Spitz nevus, Reed nevus

Malignant Features

Atypical network

Irregular, widened pigment network

Seen in: Melanoma

Blue-white veil

Irregular confluent blue pigmentation

Seen in: Melanoma

Irregular streaks

Asymmetric radial streaming

Seen in: Melanoma

Irregular dots/globules

Varying size, shape, color

Seen in: Melanoma

Regression structures

White scar-like areas, peppering

Seen in: Melanoma

Atypical vessels

Polymorphous, dotted, linear irregular

Seen in: Melanoma, BCC, SCC

Non-melanocytic Patterns

Arborizing vessels

Branching telangiectasias

Seen in: Basal cell carcinoma

Keratin pearls

White-yellow structures

Seen in: Seborrheic keratosis, SCC

Milia-like cysts

White-yellow globules

Seen in: Seborrheic keratosis

Central white scale

Central white/yellow scale with vessels

Seen in: Warts

Clinical Photography Standards

Standardized clinical photography is essential for documentation, monitoring, and medicolegal purposes

Equipment

  • HIPAA-compliant imaging system
  • Standardized lighting (ring flash or LED)
  • Macro lens capability for close-ups
  • Ruler or scale marker visible
  • Color calibration card when possible

Patient Positioning

  • Consistent distance from camera
  • Neutral background (blue or gray)
  • Remove jewelry/clothing as appropriate
  • Document anatomic landmarks
  • Reproducible positioning for follow-up

Views Required

  • Overview image showing anatomic location
  • Close-up of lesion with ruler (millimeter scale)
  • Dermoscopic image if performed
  • Surrounding skin for context
  • Multiple angles if three-dimensional

Documentation

  • Date and time of photography
  • Patient identifier visible or embedded
  • Lesion location documented in chart
  • Reference photography number in note
  • Informed consent for photography

Complete Dermatology SOAP Note Examples

Real clinical examples for common dermatologic conditions

Acne Vulgaris

L70.0
S

Subjective

Patient reports persistent facial breakouts for 6 months. Tried over-the-counter benzoyl peroxide with minimal improvement. Comedones and inflammatory papules worsening. Denies cosmetic triggers. No prior systemic acne therapy.

O

Objective

Facial exam: Multiple open and closed comedones on forehead and nose. 10-15 erythematous papules and pustules on cheeks and chin. No nodules or cysts. Mild post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. No scarring. Fitzpatrick skin type IV.

A

Assessment

Moderate inflammatory acne vulgaris (L70.0). Predominant comedonal and papulopustular components. No nodulocystic features.

P

Plan

Initiate tretinoin 0.025% cream nightly (start 3x/week, increase as tolerated). Add clindamycin 1% gel AM. Continue benzoyl peroxide 5% wash. Counsel on skincare routine and retinoid dermatitis expectations. Follow up in 6 weeks to assess response. Consider oral antibiotics if inadequate response.

Psoriasis Vulgaris

L40.0
S

Subjective

Patient presents with persistent scaly plaques on elbows and knees for 2 years. Worsens in winter. Tried topical hydrocortisone without improvement. No joint pain. No prior psoriasis diagnosis. Father has psoriasis.

O

Objective

Well-demarcated erythematous plaques with silvery-white scale on bilateral elbows (3-5cm) and knees (4-6cm). Auspitz sign positive. No nail pitting or onycholysis. BSA involvement approximately 5%. No scalp or inverse involvement visible.

A

Assessment

Plaque psoriasis, localized (L40.0). Mild to moderate severity based on BSA <10%. Classic plaque morphology. Family history positive.

P

Plan

Initiate betamethasone dipropionate 0.05% ointment BID to plaques, maximum 2 weeks then taper to weekends only. Add calcipotriene 0.005% ointment on non-steroid days. Recommend coal tar shampoo if scalp involvement develops. Lifestyle: Moisturize regularly, avoid skin trauma (Koebner phenomenon). Follow up in 4 weeks. Discuss phototherapy or systemic therapy if inadequate response.

Atopic Dermatitis (Eczema)

L20.9
S

Subjective

Patient reports intensely itchy rash in elbow creases and behind knees since childhood. Flares with stress and cold weather. Currently worse than baseline. Using fragrance-free moisturizers. History of asthma. Frequent nighttime scratching affecting sleep.

O

Objective

Bilateral antecubital and popliteal fossae demonstrate ill-defined erythematous plaques with xerosis and lichenification. Excoriations present. No oozing or crusting. Mild involvement on wrists. Dennie-Morgan folds noted. Approximately 8% BSA involvement.

A

Assessment

Moderate atopic dermatitis (L20.9). Active flare with lichenification from chronic scratching. Typical flexural distribution. Personal history of atopy.

P

Plan

Short course triamcinolone 0.1% ointment BID to active areas x 2 weeks. Transition to pimecrolimus 1% cream BID for maintenance. Aggressive moisturization with ceramide-containing products immediately after bathing. Hydroxyzine 25mg qHS PRN for pruritus. Recommend wet wrap therapy for severe flares. Identify and avoid triggers. Follow up in 3 weeks.

Basal Cell Carcinoma

C44.319
S

Subjective

Patient noticed non-healing "sore" on left nasal ala for 6 months. Intermittently bleeds and crusts. No pain. Significant lifetime sun exposure as outdoor construction worker. No history of skin cancer. No radiation exposure.

O

Objective

5mm pearly, pink papule with telangiectasias on left nasal ala. Central depression with intermittent crusting. Rolled borders. Dermoscopy: Arborizing vessels, multiple blue-gray ovoid nests, spoke-wheel structures. Concerning for basal cell carcinoma. Facial examination otherwise unremarkable.

A

Assessment

Nodular basal cell carcinoma, left nasal ala (C44.319). Clinical and dermoscopic features highly suspicious. Cosmetically sensitive location.

P

Plan

3mm punch biopsy performed today, sent to pathology (spec #2024-12345, clinical indication: rule out BCC). Once pathology confirms, will schedule Mohs micrographic surgery given facial location and importance of tissue preservation. Discussed BCC diagnosis, treatment options, and excellent prognosis. Full skin exam: No additional concerning lesions. Recommend annual skin surveillance exams. Sun protection counseling provided.

Melanoma In Situ

D03.9
S

Subjective

Patient reports changing mole on upper back noted by spouse. Lesion darker and larger than 6 months ago. No bleeding or itching. No personal history of melanoma. Mother diagnosed with melanoma at age 65. Multiple dysplastic nevi. Uses sunscreen inconsistently.

O

Objective

8mm irregularly bordered, asymmetric, variegated brown to black macule on upper back. ABCDE: A=2, B=irregular in 6 segments, C=3 colors, D=8mm, E=patient reports growth. Dermoscopy: Atypical pigment network, irregular globules, peripheral streaking, focal regression. Multiple additional nevi with some dysplastic features throughout back.

A

Assessment

Atypical pigmented lesion, highly suspicious for melanoma (D03.9). ABCDE score: concerning. Dermoscopic features consistent with melanoma. Multiple dysplastic nevi syndrome. Strong family history melanoma.

P

Plan

Complete excisional biopsy with 2mm margins performed today (sent to pathology, spec #2024-12346). Await pathology for definitive diagnosis and Breslow depth. If melanoma confirmed, will stage and determine need for re-excision based on depth. Baseline total body photography ordered for dysplastic nevus monitoring. Discussed melanoma risk factors, signs to monitor, strict sun protection. Follow up in 2 weeks for pathology results. Recommend dermatology surveillance q3-6 months given high-risk profile.

Rosacea

L71.9
S

Subjective

Patient complains of persistent facial redness and flushing for 2 years, worsening over past 6 months. Triggers include spicy foods, alcohol, hot beverages. Multiple small facial bumps. Denies eye symptoms. Tried over-the-counter products without benefit.

O

Objective

Centrofacial erythema involving cheeks, nose, and chin. Multiple small erythematous papules and pustules, no comedones. Visible telangiectasias on cheeks. No rhinophyma. No ocular injection or irritation. Fitzpatrick skin type II.

A

Assessment

Papulopustular rosacea, moderate (L71.9). Classic centrofacial distribution with inflammatory papules and vascular component.

P

Plan

Initiate metronidazole 0.75% gel BID. Add azelaic acid 15% gel daily if tolerated after 2 weeks. Consider doxycycline 40mg (anti-inflammatory dose) daily if topicals insufficient. Trigger avoidance counseling. Recommend gentle skincare, mineral sunscreen SPF 30+. Refer to laser/IPL for persistent erythema and telangiectasias if medical therapy insufficient. Follow up in 8 weeks.

Dermatology Procedure Documentation

Essential elements for documenting common dermatologic procedures

Shave Biopsy

Procedure

Indication:

Sampling of superficial lesions (SK, suspected BCC/SCC)

Technique:

After informed consent and timeout, site prepped with alcohol. 1% lidocaine with epinephrine infiltrated. Lesion shaved tangentially with #15 blade at level of mid-dermis. Hemostasis achieved with aluminum chloride. Specimen submitted in formalin to pathology.

Sample Documentation:

Procedure note: Shave biopsy of 6mm papule, left cheek. Lidocaine 1% with epi 1.5mL. Specimen to pathology (spec #). Post-procedure care instructions given. Wound care: Petrolatum and bandage, keep moist. RTC for results in 1-2 weeks.

Punch Biopsy

Procedure

Indication:

Full-thickness sampling of inflammatory conditions or deeper lesions

Technique:

After informed consent and timeout, site prepped. 1% lidocaine with epinephrine infiltrated. 3mm/4mm punch used to obtain full-thickness cylindrical specimen. Specimen submitted. Hemostasis with pressure and/or simple suture closure.

Sample Documentation:

Procedure note: 4mm punch biopsy, left forearm rash. Lidocaine 1% with epi 2mL. One simple interrupted 4-0 nylon suture placed. Specimen to pathology (spec #) for H&E and DIF. Suture removal in 7-10 days. Wound care instructions provided.

Excisional Biopsy

Procedure

Indication:

Complete removal of lesion with margins for histologic diagnosis

Technique:

After informed consent and timeout, lesion and margins marked. Site prepped, draped. Lidocaine 1% with epinephrine infiltrated. Elliptical excision with 2-4mm margins to subcutaneous fat. Specimen oriented with suture. Undermining as needed. Layered closure.

Sample Documentation:

Procedure note: Excisional biopsy, suspicious pigmented lesion, upper back. Ellipse 15x6mm with 2mm margins. Undermining, layered closure with 4-0 Monocryl deep, 5-0 nylon superficial (8 sutures). Specimen oriented (short=superior) to pathology (spec #). Suture removal in 10-14 days. Discussed pathology follow-up.

Cryotherapy

Procedure

Indication:

Treatment of benign lesions (warts, actinic keratoses, seborrheic keratoses)

Technique:

Liquid nitrogen applied via spray or cryoprobe. Freeze-thaw cycles tailored to diagnosis: AK (5-10 sec), wart (10-30 sec with 1-2mm margin), SK (variable). White halo achieved. Patient counseled on expected blistering.

Sample Documentation:

Procedure note: Cryotherapy to 4 actinic keratoses on bilateral forearms (10 seconds each) and 1 viral wart on left hand (20 seconds x 2 cycles with 2mm margin). Anticipated blistering and hypopigmentation discussed. Return PRN if persistence. Skin cancer screening counseling provided.

Mohs Micrographic Surgery

Procedure

Indication:

Treatment of high-risk or cosmetically sensitive skin cancers

Technique:

Multi-stage procedure with immediate microscopic margin control. Surgical layers removed sequentially, mapped, processed, examined. Additional layers removed until margins clear. Reconstruction performed after tumor clearance.

Sample Documentation:

Mohs surgery, BCC left nasal ala. Stage 1: 6mm defect, positive margins at 3 o'clock. Stage 2: Additional tissue removed, margins clear. Final defect 9x8mm. Repaired with advancement flap. Layered closure. Post-op care discussed. Follow up in 1 week for suture removal, then 6 months for surveillance.

Cosmetic Procedure Documentation

Cosmetic dermatology procedures require thorough documentation for medical-legal protection

Essential Documentation Elements

  • Pre-procedure photography (multiple angles)
  • Informed consent with risks, benefits, alternatives
  • Patient expectations and treatment goals discussed
  • Areas treated with specific anatomic sites
  • Product used (lot number, expiration date)
  • Units/volume/concentration administered
  • Injection technique and depth
  • Adverse events or complications
  • Post-procedure instructions and follow-up plan
  • Patient satisfaction assessment at follow-up

Botulinum Toxin (Botox)

Cosmetic consultation: Glabellar lines treatment. Pre-procedure photos obtained. Informed consent signed. BOTOX 20 units total (Lot #ABC123, Exp 12/2026) injected to glabellar complex: 5 injection points. No bleeding/bruising. Post-procedure care: Avoid lying flat 4 hours, no exercise 24 hours. Expect onset 3-7 days, peak 2 weeks. Follow up PRN in 2 weeks.

Dermal Fillers

Cosmetic consultation: Volume loss nasolabial folds. Pre-procedure photos. Consent reviewed. Juvederm Ultra Plus 1.0mL injected into right nasolabial fold, 1.0mL left nasolabial fold via linear threading and serial puncture. Immediate molding. Minimal bruising. Ice applied. Discussed expected swelling 24-48 hours. Arnica recommended. Emergency contact provided. Follow up in 2 weeks.

Dermatology ICD-10 Codes

Common diagnostic codes for dermatologic conditions

Benign Neoplasms

D22.x

Melanocytic nevi (x=site: 5=trunk, 6=upper limb, 7=lower limb, 9=unspecified)

D23.x

Other benign neoplasms of skin (site-specific)

L82.0

Inflamed seborrheic keratosis

L82.1

Other seborrheic keratosis

Malignant Neoplasms

C43.x

Malignant melanoma of skin (site-specific)

C44.x1

Basal cell carcinoma of skin (site-specific, laterality)

C44.x2

Squamous cell carcinoma of skin (site-specific, laterality)

D03.x

Melanoma in situ (site-specific)

D04.x

Carcinoma in situ of skin (site-specific)

Inflammatory Conditions

L20.9

Atopic dermatitis, unspecified

L30.9

Dermatitis, unspecified (eczema)

L40.0

Psoriasis vulgaris

L40.50

Arthropathic psoriasis, unspecified

L70.0

Acne vulgaris

L71.9

Rosacea, unspecified

Infections

B07.9

Viral wart, unspecified

B00.1

Herpesviral vesicular dermatitis (HSV)

B02.9

Zoster without complications (shingles)

L01.00

Impetigo, unspecified

L03.90

Cellulitis, unspecified

B35.9

Dermatophytosis, unspecified (tinea)

Precancerous Lesions

L57.0

Actinic keratosis

D07.4

Carcinoma in situ of skin of scalp and neck

Common Documentation Mistakes

Avoid these frequent dermatology documentation errors

Vague lesion descriptions

Problem:

Documentation like "rash on arm" lacks specificity for diagnosis and billing

Solution:

Use precise morphology: "3cm well-demarcated erythematous plaque with silvery scale on left extensor forearm"

Impact:

Billing denials, medicolegal vulnerability, poor care continuity

Missing lesion measurements

Problem:

Not documenting size makes monitoring and excision planning impossible

Solution:

Always measure and document lesions in millimeters (length x width). Include reference photos.

Impact:

Cannot track growth, inadequate excision margins, no baseline for comparison

Incomplete ABCDE assessment for pigmented lesions

Problem:

Failure to systematically evaluate melanoma criteria increases missed diagnoses

Solution:

Document all five ABCDE criteria for every pigmented lesion, even if benign-appearing

Impact:

Missed melanoma, malpractice risk, poor quality metrics

Not documenting dermoscopy findings

Problem:

Performing dermoscopy without documentation provides no medicolegal protection

Solution:

Document dermoscopic structures seen: "Dermoscopy: Regular pigment network, no blue-white veil"

Impact:

No evidence dermoscopy performed, liability if cancer missed

Omitting photography references

Problem:

Taking clinical photos but not referencing them in documentation

Solution:

Document: "Clinical photographs obtained and uploaded to chart, images #12345-12348"

Impact:

Photos not linked to visit, lost documentation value

Inadequate procedure documentation

Problem:

Brief notes like "biopsy performed" lack critical procedural details

Solution:

Include: site, size, technique, anesthesia, closure, specimen handling, pathology order, complications

Impact:

Billing denials, quality issues, medicolegal problems

Missing pathology correlation

Problem:

Not documenting how pathology results align (or don't align) with clinical diagnosis

Solution:

State: "Pathology confirms clinical diagnosis of BCC" or "Pathology shows melanoma, discordant with clinical impression"

Impact:

Poor care coordination, missed treatment modifications

No sun protection counseling documentation

Problem:

Counseling not documented means it didn't happen from billing/legal perspective

Solution:

Document: "Discussed sun protection, daily SPF 30+, sun-protective clothing, annual skin exams"

Impact:

Lost preventive care credit, reduced quality scores

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the ABCDE rule for melanoma screening?

The ABCDE rule helps identify suspicious pigmented lesions: A=Asymmetry (one half doesn't match the other), B=Border irregularity (scalloped or poorly defined edges), C=Color variation (multiple colors or uneven distribution), D=Diameter >6mm (size of pencil eraser), and E=Evolving (changing in size, shape, color, or symptoms). Lesions meeting multiple criteria should be biopsied or monitored closely.

What dermatology-specific elements must be documented in SOAP notes?

Dermatology SOAP notes require: anatomic location of lesions, size in millimeters, primary morphology (macule, papule, plaque, etc.), color, border characteristics, distribution pattern, ABCDE criteria for pigmented lesions, dermoscopy findings if performed, photography reference, body diagram mapping, and Fitzpatrick skin type. Procedures require technique, anesthesia, specimen handling, and pathology orders.

How should I describe skin lesion morphology?

Use standardized dermatologic terminology. Primary lesions: macule (flat <1cm), patch (flat >1cm), papule (raised <1cm), plaque (raised flat-topped >1cm), nodule (solid >1cm), vesicle (fluid <1cm), bulla (fluid >1cm), pustule (pus-filled). Secondary changes: scale, crust, erosion, ulcer, lichenification, atrophy. Always include size, color, location, and distribution.

What dermoscopy findings suggest melanoma?

Concerning dermoscopic features include: atypical pigment network (irregular, widened), blue-white veil (irregular confluent blue pigmentation), irregular streaks (asymmetric radial streaming), irregular dots and globules (varying size/color), regression structures (white scar-like areas, blue-gray peppering), and atypical vessels. Multiple features increase suspicion; biopsy recommended.

How do I document skin cancer excisions properly?

Document: informed consent, timeout, site prep/drape, anesthesia type and amount, lesion location and size, excision margins planned (usually 4mm for BCC, variable for SCC, 5-10mm for melanoma based on Breslow depth), technique, specimen orientation (e.g., "suture marks superior"), closure method (layers, suture type/size), complications, pathology order, and post-op instructions including suture removal timing.

What ICD-10 codes are most common in dermatology?

Common codes include: L70.0 (acne vulgaris), L40.0 (psoriasis vulgaris), L20.9 (atopic dermatitis), L71.9 (rosacea), L57.0 (actinic keratosis), C44.x1 (basal cell carcinoma), C44.x2 (squamous cell carcinoma), C43.x (melanoma), D22.x (benign nevi), and B07.9 (viral warts). The "x" represents site-specific digits requiring anatomic location.

How should clinical photography be documented?

Document: patient consent obtained, date/time of photos, anatomic location photographed, image reference numbers, equipment used, presence of scale/ruler in close-ups, and purpose (baseline, monitoring, pre/post-procedure). Store in HIPAA-compliant system. Reference photos in clinical note: "Clinical photographs obtained, images #12345-12348." Photos should include overview and close-up with ruler.

Can AI help with dermatology documentation?

Yes, AI documentation tools like PatientNotes can capture dermatology visits and generate SOAP notes with appropriate lesion descriptions, ABCDE criteria, dermoscopy findings, and procedure documentation. The AI can prompt for dermatology-specific elements like measurements, morphology, and body mapping. This saves 10-15 minutes per visit while ensuring complete documentation. Providers review and sign final notes.

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