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ICD-10 Coding for Cervical Lymphadenopathy(R59.0)

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

Also known as:

Swollen Neck GlandsCervical Adenopathyswollen neck lymph nodescervical lymph node enlargement

Related ICD-10 Code Ranges

Complete code families applicable to Cervical Lymphadenopathy

R59.0-R59.9Primary Range

Codes for lymphadenopathy, including localized, generalized, and unspecified

This range includes codes for different types of lymphadenopathy, with R59.0 specifically for localized cervical lymphadenopathy.

Key Information: ICD-10 code for cervical lymphadenopathy

Essential facts and insights about Cervical Lymphadenopathy

The ICD-10 code for localized cervical lymphadenopathy is R59.0, used when the condition is confined to the cervical region without a definitive cause.

Primary ICD-10-CM Code for cervical lymphadenopathy

Localized enlarged lymph nodes
Billable Code

Decision Criteria

clinical Criteria

  • Localized lymph node enlargement without systemic symptoms

documentation Criteria

  • Detailed node description including size and consistency

Applicable To

  • Localized cervical lymphadenopathy

Excludes

  • Generalized lymphadenopathy (R59.1)
  • Lymphadenitis (L04.0)

Clinical Validation Requirements

  • Ultrasound showing short axis >1 cm
  • Loss of fatty hilum

Code-Specific Risks

  • Incorrectly using as primary code when a definitive diagnosis is present

Coding Notes

  • Ensure documentation specifies the location, size, and characteristics of the lymph nodes.

Ancillary Codes

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

Acute pharyngitis due to Streptococcus

J02.0
Use when lymphadenopathy is secondary to strep throat.

Differential Codes

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

Generalized enlarged lymph nodes

R59.1
Use R59.1 when lymphadenopathy is present in multiple regions.

Documentation & Coding Risks

Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Cervical Lymphadenopathy to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code R59.0.

Impact

Clinical: May lead to misdiagnosis or inappropriate treatment., Regulatory: Non-compliance with documentation standards., Financial: Potential for denied claims due to insufficient documentation.

Mitigation Strategy

Use structured templates for documentation, Ensure thorough clinical examination and recording

Impact

Reimbursement: May lead to denied claims if improperly sequenced., Compliance: Non-compliance with coding guidelines., Data Quality: Inaccurate clinical data representation.

Mitigation Strategy

Use the definitive diagnosis code as primary and R59.0 as secondary.

Impact

Using R59.0 as primary when a definitive diagnosis exists.

Mitigation Strategy

Educate coders on proper sequencing rules.

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 Lymphadenopathy, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.

Documentation Templates for Cervical Lymphadenopathy

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

Initial Evaluation of Cervical Lymphadenopathy

Specialty: General Practice

Required Elements

  • Location of lymphadenopathy
  • Size and consistency of nodes
  • Associated symptoms
  • Imaging results

Example Documentation

Patient presents with a 2 cm firm, non-tender left cervical node. Ultrasound shows loss of fatty hilum.

Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation

Poor Documentation Example
Swollen neck glands
Good Documentation Example
2 cm firm left cervical node, non-tender, with overlying erythema
Explanation
The good example provides specific details about the node's size, consistency, and associated symptoms.

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

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