ICD-10 Coding for Cervical Adenopathy(R59.0, R59.1, R59.9, C77.0)
Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Cervical Adenopathy. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.
Also known as:
Related ICD-10 Code Ranges
Complete code families applicable to Cervical Adenopathy
R59.0-R59.9Primary Range
Enlarged lymph nodes
This range covers lymphadenopathy, including cervical adenopathy, with specific codes for localized, generalized, and unspecified presentations.
Secondary and unspecified malignant neoplasm of lymph nodes of head, face, and neck
Used when cervical adenopathy is due to metastatic 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| R59.0 | Localized enlarged lymph nodes | Use when lymphadenopathy is confined to the cervical region. |
|
| R59.1 | Generalized enlarged lymph nodes | Use when lymphadenopathy involves multiple regions. |
|
| R59.9 | Enlarged lymph nodes, unspecified | Use when documentation does not specify the extent of lymphadenopathy. |
|
| C77.0 | Secondary and unspecified malignant neoplasm of lymph nodes of head, face, and neck | Use when cervical adenopathy is due to metastatic cancer. |
|
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 cervical adenopathy
Essential facts and insights about Cervical Adenopathy
Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for cervical adenopathy
Decision Criteria
documentation Criteria
- Documentation must specify 'localized' cervical adenopathy.
Applicable To
- Localized cervical adenopathy
Excludes
- Lymphadenitis (L04.x)
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Unilateral cervical node involvement
- Ultrasound showing single node cluster
Code-Specific Risks
- Risk of undercoding if generalized adenopathy is present but not documented.
Coding Notes
- Ensure documentation specifies 'localized' to avoid defaulting to R59.9.
R59.1 - Generalized enlarged lymph nodes
Use when lymphadenopathy involves multiple regions.
Applicable To
- Generalized lymphadenopathy
Excludes
- Localized lymphadenopathy (R59.0)
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Involvement of multiple lymph node regions
- Systemic symptoms like fever or weight loss
Coding Notes
Ensure documentation supports 'generalized' to avoid defaulting to R59.9.
R59.9 - Enlarged lymph nodes, unspecified
Use when documentation does not specify the extent of lymphadenopathy.
Applicable To
- Unspecified lymphadenopathy
Excludes
- Localized (R59.0) or generalized (R59.1) lymphadenopathy
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Lack of specific documentation on localization or generalization
Coding Notes
Query for more specific information if possible.
C77.0 - Secondary and unspecified malignant neoplasm of lymph nodes of head, face, and neck
Use when cervical adenopathy is due to metastatic cancer.
Applicable To
- Metastatic cervical lymph nodes
Excludes
- Primary malignancy of lymph nodes
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Histologic confirmation of metastasis
- Primary cancer diagnosis
Coding Notes
Ensure primary cancer is coded before C77.0.
Ancillary Codes
Additional codes that should be used in conjunction with the main diagnosis codes when applicable.
Acute streptococcal pharyngitis
J02.0Differential 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 Cervical Adenopathy to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code R59.0.
Impact
Clinical: Inadequate clinical picture for diagnosis, Regulatory: Non-compliance with documentation standards, Financial: Potential for reduced reimbursement
Mitigation Strategy
Use structured templates for documentation, Train staff on importance of detailed node descriptions
Impact
Reimbursement: May lead to lower reimbursement due to lack of specificity., Compliance: Non-compliance with coding guidelines., Data Quality: Decreased data accuracy and quality.
Mitigation Strategy
Query for clarification on localization or generalization.
Impact
Reimbursement: Incorrect coding may affect reimbursement rates., Compliance: Non-compliance with ICD-10 coding standards., Data Quality: Inaccurate clinical data representation.
Mitigation Strategy
Use L04.x series for lymphadenitis.
Impact
Frequent use of R59.9 without attempts to specify localization or generalization.
Mitigation Strategy
Implement query processes for clarification.
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 Cervical Adenopathy, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.
Documentation Templates for Cervical Adenopathy
Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Cervical Adenopathy. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.
ENT evaluation of cervical adenopathy
Specialty: OtolaryngologyRequired Elements
- Location and size of lymph nodes
- Consistency and mobility
- Associated symptoms
- Diagnostic test results
Example Documentation
Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation
Poor Documentation Example
Good Documentation Example
Explanation
Need help with ICD-10 coding for Cervical Adenopathy? Ask your questions below.