ICD-10 Coding for Axillary Mass(N63.32, R22.3)
Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Axillary Mass. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.
Also known as:
Related ICD-10 Code Ranges
Complete code families applicable to Axillary Mass
Localized swelling, mass and lump of skin and subcutaneous tissue
Includes codes for non-breast related axillary masses.
Malignant neoplasms of breast
Includes codes for malignant axillary masses related to breast cancer.
Code Comparison: When to Use Each Code
Compare key differences between these codes to ensure accurate selection
| Code | Description | When to Use | Key Documentation |
|---|---|---|---|
| N63.32 | Unspecified lump in axillary tail of left breast | Use when a lump is confirmed in the axillary tail of the left breast. |
|
| R22.3 | Localized swelling, mass and lump, upper limb | Use for axillary masses unrelated to breast tissue. |
|
Clinical Decision Support
Always review the patient's clinical documentation thoroughly. When in doubt, choose the more specific code and ensure documentation supports it.
Key Information: ICD-10 code for axillary mass
Essential facts and insights about Axillary Mass
Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for axillary mass
Decision Criteria
clinical Criteria
- Mass confirmed in axillary tail via imaging
documentation Criteria
- Specify laterality and breast tissue involvement
Applicable To
- Lump in axillary tail of left breast
Excludes
- Lump in axilla not involving breast tissue
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Imaging showing mass in axillary tail
- Clinical exam confirming breast tissue involvement
Code-Specific Risks
- Confusion with R22.3 if breast involvement is not documented
Coding Notes
- Ensure imaging or clinical exam confirms axillary tail involvement.
R22.3 - Localized swelling, mass and lump, upper limb
Use for axillary masses unrelated to breast tissue.
Applicable To
- Lump in axilla not involving breast tissue
Excludes
- Lump in axillary tail of breast
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Clinical exam or imaging showing mass in axilla without breast involvement
Coding Notes
Ensure documentation specifies lack of breast involvement.
Ancillary Codes
Additional codes that should be used in conjunction with the main diagnosis codes when applicable.
Secondary and unspecified malignant neoplasm of axillary lymph nodes
C77.3Differential Codes
Alternative codes to consider when ruling out similar conditions to the primary diagnosis.
Documentation & Coding Risks
Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Axillary Mass to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code N63.32.
Impact
Clinical: Leads to ambiguity in treatment planning., Regulatory: Non-compliance with coding standards., Financial: Potential claim denials due to unspecified codes.
Mitigation Strategy
Always document laterality in clinical notes., Use templates that prompt for laterality.
Impact
Reimbursement: Incorrect coding may lead to denied claims or reduced reimbursement., Compliance: Misclassification can result in compliance issues during audits., Data Quality: Inaccurate data entry affects patient records and statistical analysis.
Mitigation Strategy
Verify imaging and clinical documentation to confirm location and involvement.
Impact
Incorrectly selecting codes for axillary masses.
Mitigation Strategy
Use decision criteria and imaging confirmation to guide code selection.
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 Axillary Mass, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.
Documentation Templates for Axillary Mass
Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Axillary Mass. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.
Axillary Mass Evaluation
Specialty: RadiologyRequired Elements
- Mass location
- Imaging findings
- Clinical correlation
Example Documentation
Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation
Poor Documentation Example
Good Documentation Example
Explanation
Need help with ICD-10 coding for Axillary Mass? Ask your questions below.