Welcome to the official MedicoExam syllabus guide for the AAPC Certified Professional Coder in Dermatology certification. This page delivers a clear, structured overview of the AAPC CPCD exam, including key exam details, syllabus topics, and preparation references to support effective study planning. The AAPC Certified Professional Coder in Dermatology (CPCD) is intended for professionals pursuing roles aligned with Specialty Coding + Medical coding, with assessment centered on applied competencies such as dermatology code assignment, documentation abstraction, modifier and billing-rule application within real-world settings like dermatology practices, physician office settings, outpatient specialty care settings.
The syllabus outline below reflects the core domains and expectations defined by the official AAPC certification framework and aligns with the cognitive and professional standards assessed in the AAPC CPCD exam. Candidates can use this guide alongside official vendor resources and structured practice to align their preparation with current exam standards and professional expectations for dermatology coder, medical coder, specialty coding professional and related roles
AAPC CPCD Exam Summary and Key Details
| Exam Name | AAPC Certified Professional Coder in Dermatology |
| Credential | AAPC Certified Professional Coder in Dermatology (CPCD) |
| Vendor | American Academy of Professional Coders (AAPC) |
| Exam Code | CPCD » AAPC CPCD Certification Practice Exam |
| Exam Delivery Mode | Online at home with a live remote proctor, or computer-based at a testing center |
| Exam Duration | 240 mins |
| Number of Questions | 100 |
| Passing Score | 70% |
| Exam Price | $399 for two exam attempts |
| Scheduling Window | Schedule after exam purchase based on available online-proctored or testing-center appointment options |
| Schedule Exam | AAPC |
| Trainings/Resources | Certified Professional Coder in Dermatology (CPCD) Online Training Course |
| Sample Questions | AAPC CPCD Exam Sample Questions |
| Recommended Practice | AAPC CPCD Certification Practice Exam |
AAPC CPCD Exam Syllabus Topics and Weighting
| Topic Areas | Topic Details, Courses, Books |
|---|---|
| Core knowledge areas |
- ICD-10-CM coding for dermatologic conditions such as acne, eczema, psoriasis, skin infections, and skin cancers - E/M service selection for dermatology visits, including preventive, diagnostic, and procedural encounters - Proper use of modifiers, NCCI edits, and payer rules specific to dermatology |
| Biopsies, excisions, and lesion services |
- Coding for punch, shave, incisional, and excisional biopsies - Malignant and benign lesion excisions, with accurate coding based on size, location, and margins - Destruction of lesions using cryotherapy, electrosurgery, laser, or chemical methods |
| Dermatologic surgical and repair procedures |
- Simple, intermediate, and complex wound repairs, including layered closures - Coding for adjacent tissue transfers, flaps, and skin grafts - Nail procedures, debridement, and treatment of pressure ulcers or wounds commonly addressed in dermatology |
| Cosmetic, therapeutic, and specialty services |
- Phototherapy, laser treatments, and cosmetic procedures such as chemical peels and scar revisions (when medically necessary or covered) - Injections and therapeutic treatments for dermatologic conditions (e.g., corticosteroid injections, biologic therapies) - Mohs micrographic surgery coding, including required documentation elements for compliance |
The AAPC CPCD certification exam is designed to assess both theoretical knowledge and applied professional judgment in Specialty Coding + Medical coding. The exam evaluates competencies such as dermatology code assignment, documentation abstraction, modifier and billing-rule application, ensuring candidates are prepared for real-world responsibilities as dermatology coder, medical coder, specialty coding professional and related roles working in settings such as dermatology practices, physician office settings, outpatient specialty care settings.
To prepare effectively for the AAPC Certified Professional Coder in Dermatology exam, candidates are encouraged to review official vendor materials, complete structured practice assessments, and gain hands-on experience relevant to their professional role.
