Total Body Photography, Dermoscopy and Other Selected Noninvasive Dermatologic Tests (CPB 0188, reviewed 2026-08-04)
Summary
Aetna considers total body photography (TBP) and dermoscopy medically necessary when used to evaluate members with a history or close family history of atypical nevi, dysplastic nevi, melanoma, or non-melanoma skin cancers. Repeat studies are not typically required more frequently than every 24 months. CPT 96904 (whole body integumentary photography) is covered when the selection criteria are met, for monitoring high-risk patients with dysplastic nevus syndrome or a history of dysplastic nevi, or a personal or family history of melanoma. Computerized TBP systems, TBP and dermoscopy for all other indications, and several other noninvasive tests are listed as experimental, investigational or unproven, including reflectance confocal microscopy, electrical impedance devices, optical coherence tomography, and the DermTech Pigmented Lesion Assay.
Get alerts when payers change rules like this one
We check Aetna and other payers every day and email you when a change matches your specialty and state.