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ICD-10 Coding for ASCUS(R87.610)

Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for ASCUS. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.

Also known as:

Atypical Squamous Cells of Undetermined SignificanceASC-US

Related ICD-10 Code Ranges

Complete code families applicable to ASCUS

R87.6Primary Range

Abnormal findings in specimens from female genital organs

This range includes codes for abnormal cytological findings in cervical and vaginal specimens, including ASCUS.

Key Information: ICD-10 code for ASCUS

Essential facts and insights about ASCUS

The ICD-10 code for ASCUS is R87.610, used for atypical squamous cells of undetermined significance on cervical cytology.

Primary ICD-10-CM Code for ascus

Atypical squamous cells of undetermined significance on cytologic smear of cervix
Billable Code

Decision Criteria

clinical Criteria

  • ASC-US confirmed by cytology report

coding Criteria

  • Use R87.610 for ASC-US findings

documentation Criteria

  • Document cytology findings and HPV status

Applicable To

  • ASC-US on cervical cytology

Excludes

Clinical Validation Requirements

  • Cytology report confirming ASC-US
  • Bethesda System terminology

Code-Specific Risks

  • Confusing ASC-US with ASC-H or LSIL
  • Incorrect sequencing with screening codes

Coding Notes

  • Ensure documentation specifies ASC-US and includes HPV status if available.

Ancillary Codes

Additional codes that should be used in conjunction with the main diagnosis codes when applicable.

Encounter for cervical cancer screening

Z12.4
Use as primary code if the encounter is for screening purposes.

Personal history of cervical dysplasia

Z86.001
Use if there is a history of cervical dysplasia.

Differential Codes

Alternative codes to consider when ruling out similar conditions to the primary diagnosis.

Atypical squamous cells, cannot exclude HSIL

R87.611
ASC-H involves more pronounced nuclear atypia and a higher risk of HSIL.

Low-grade squamous intraepithelial lesion

R87.612
LSIL is characterized by mild dysplasia and koilocytic changes.

Documentation & Coding Risks

Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting ASCUS to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code R87.610.

Impact

Clinical: Leads to misinterpretation of patient condition., Regulatory: Non-compliance with documentation standards., Financial: Potential claim denials due to insufficient documentation.

Mitigation Strategy

Use specific terminology like ASC-US., Include detailed cytology and HPV results.

Impact

Reimbursement: Incorrect coding may lead to denied claims., Compliance: Non-compliance with coding guidelines., Data Quality: Inaccurate clinical data representation.

Mitigation Strategy

Ensure ASC-US is specifically documented to use R87.610.

Impact

Failure to specify ASC-US can lead to audit issues.

Mitigation Strategy

Ensure documentation uses precise terminology and includes HPV results.

Documentation errors, coding pitfalls, and audit risks are interconnected aspects of medical coding and billing. Addressing all three areas helps ensure accurate coding, optimal reimbursement, and regulatory compliance.

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about ICD-10 coding for ASCUS, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.

Documentation Templates for ASCUS

Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for ASCUS. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.

Routine Pap with ASC-US

Specialty: OB/GYN

Required Elements

  • Patient history
  • Cytology results
  • HPV status
  • Follow-up plan

Example Documentation

S: 32yo F presents for ASC-US Pap result. No bleeding/pain. O: Pap (01/2025): ASC-US. HPV PCR: Negative. A: ASC-US (R87.610) with negative HPV. P: Repeat co-testing in 3 years per ASCCP guidelines.

Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation

Poor Documentation Example
Abnormal Pap, follow up needed.
Good Documentation Example
Pap result: ASC-US per Bethesda System. HPV PCR: Negative.
Explanation
The good example specifies the cytology findings and HPV status, which are essential for accurate coding.

Need help with ICD-10 coding for ASCUS? Ask your questions below.

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