96931 Rcm img acquisj & i&r first lesion
Also known as: RCM, Confocal microscopy, Skin confocal imaging
Reflectance confocal microscopy with image acquisition, interpretation, and report on first lesion. Real-time microscopic visualization of skin layers without biopsy.
In Plain Language
Special microscope pictures of skin lesions; High-power skin imaging without cutting
Clinical Context
Used for melanoma and non-melanoma skin cancer diagnosis to avoid unnecessary biopsies. Allows cellular-level visualization of suspicious lesions.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 0.78 |
| Total RVU | 0.78 |
Est. Medicare Payment
National estimate based on 2026 CMS PFS Conversion Factor ($33.40). Actual payment varies by locality (GPCI adjustment).
Billing & Documentation
Medicine section codes cover a wide range of non-surgical services. Documentation should include the clinical indication, procedure details, interpretation (if applicable), and any patient-specific findings.
How This Code Compares
With a work RVU of 0.78, this code ranks in the 50th percentile among Medicine codes — exactly at the median. The highest wRVU in this category is 23.92.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 96931?
CPT 96931 (Rcm img acquisj & i&r first lesion) is a Medicine code. Reflectance confocal microscopy with image acquisition, interpretation, and report on first lesion. Real-time microscopic visualization of skin layers without biopsy.
Who uses CPT code 96931?
CPT 96931 is used by Dermatology, Dermatopathology. Used for melanoma and non-melanoma skin cancer diagnosis to avoid unnecessary biopsies. Allows cellular-level visualization of suspicious lesions.
When is CPT 96931 used?
Used for melanoma and non-melanoma skin cancer diagnosis to avoid unnecessary biopsies. Allows cellular-level visualization of suspicious lesions.
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CPT® is a registered trademark of the American Medical Association. Data sourced from CMS Physician Fee Schedule RVU26A. Descriptions, synonyms, and clinical context are original content by RVU Edge.