ICD-10 Coding for Central Nervous System Lymphoma(C83.390, C83.3, C79.31)
Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Central Nervous System Lymphoma. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.
Also known as:
Related ICD-10 Code Ranges
Complete code families applicable to Central Nervous System Lymphoma
C83.3-C83.39Primary Range
Diffuse large B-cell lymphoma
This range includes codes for diffuse large B-cell lymphoma, which is the most common type of CNS lymphoma.
Secondary malignant neoplasm of brain
Used for coding secondary CNS lymphoma when there is systemic involvement.
Code Comparison: When to Use Each Code
Compare key differences between these codes to ensure accurate selection
| Code | Description | When to Use | Key Documentation |
|---|---|---|---|
| C83.390 | Primary central nervous system lymphoma | Use when documentation specifies 'primary CNS lymphoma' with no systemic disease. |
|
| C83.3 | Diffuse large B-cell lymphoma | Use when CNS lymphoma is documented without 'primary' and no systemic disease is evident. |
|
| C79.31 | Secondary malignant neoplasm of brain | Use when CNS involvement is secondary to a systemic lymphoma. |
|
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 primary CNS lymphoma
Essential facts and insights about Central Nervous System Lymphoma
Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for central nervous system lymphoma
Decision Criteria
documentation Criteria
- Documentation must specify 'primary CNS lymphoma'.
Applicable To
- Primary CNS diffuse large B-cell lymphoma
Excludes
- Secondary CNS lymphoma (C79.31)
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Biopsy confirming DLBCL in brain/spinal cord
- Negative PET/CT for systemic involvement
Code-Specific Risks
- Misclassification if 'primary' is not documented.
Coding Notes
- Ensure 'primary' is documented to use this code.
C83.3 - Diffuse large B-cell lymphoma
Use when CNS lymphoma is documented without 'primary' and no systemic disease is evident.
Applicable To
- CNS lymphoma not specified as primary
Excludes
- Primary CNS lymphoma (C83.390)
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Biopsy confirming DLBCL
- Absence of 'primary' designation in documentation
Coding Notes
Query for 'primary' if not documented.
C79.31 - Secondary malignant neoplasm of brain
Use when CNS involvement is secondary to a systemic lymphoma.
Applicable To
- Metastatic CNS lymphoma
Excludes
- Primary CNS lymphoma (C83.390)
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Documentation of systemic origin
- Evidence of CNS involvement secondary to systemic disease
Coding Notes
Do not use with primary CNS lymphoma codes.
Ancillary Codes
Additional codes that should be used in conjunction with the main diagnosis codes when applicable.
Differential 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 Central Nervous System Lymphoma to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code C83.390.
Impact
Clinical: May lead to inappropriate treatment planning., Regulatory: Non-compliance with coding standards., Financial: Potential for claim denial or reduced reimbursement.
Mitigation Strategy
Educate clinicians on documentation requirements., Implement checklist for lymphoma diagnosis.
Impact
Reimbursement: May lead to incorrect DRG assignment., Compliance: Non-compliance with coding guidelines., Data Quality: Inaccurate clinical data representation.
Mitigation Strategy
Ensure documentation specifies 'primary CNS lymphoma'.
Impact
Reimbursement: Incorrect billing and potential claim denial., Compliance: Violation of coding rules., Data Quality: Misleading data on cancer spread.
Mitigation Strategy
Do not add C79.3 when using C83.3.
Impact
Misclassification of CNS lymphoma as primary or secondary.
Mitigation Strategy
Ensure thorough documentation and use of decision criteria.
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 Central Nervous System Lymphoma, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.
Documentation Templates for Central Nervous System Lymphoma
Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Central Nervous System Lymphoma. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.
Primary CNS Lymphoma Diagnosis
Specialty: NeurologyRequired Elements
- Biopsy results
- Imaging findings
- Systemic disease exclusion
Example Documentation
Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation
Poor Documentation Example
Good Documentation Example
Explanation
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