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ICD-10 Coding for History of Abnormal Pap Smear(R87.610, R87.615)

Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for History of Abnormal Pap Smear. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.

Also known as:

History of Abnormal Papanicolaou Test SmearAbnormal Pap History

Related ICD-10 Code Ranges

Complete code families applicable to History of Abnormal Pap Smear

R87.61-Primary Range

Abnormal findings in specimens from cervix uteri

This range includes codes for specific abnormal cytological findings such as ASC-US, LSIL, and unsatisfactory samples.

Encounter for screening for malignant neoplasm of cervix

Used for routine cervical cancer screening, especially in Medicare patients.

Encounter for gynecological examination (general) (routine) with abnormal findings

Used when a routine gynecological exam reveals abnormal findings.

Code Comparison: When to Use Each Code

Compare key differences between these codes to ensure accurate selection

CodeDescriptionWhen to UseKey Documentation
R87.610Atypical squamous cells of undetermined significance on cytologic smear of cervix (ASC-US)Use when cytology report specifies ASC-US.
  • Cytology report indicating ASC-US
  • Bethesda classification
R87.615Unsatisfactory cytologic smear of cervixUse when lab report indicates unsatisfactory cytologic smear.
  • Lab report stating 'unsatisfactory specimen'

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 history of abnormal Pap smear

Essential facts and insights about History of Abnormal Pap Smear

The ICD-10 code for a history of abnormal Pap smear is Z12.4 for screening, with specific codes like R87.610 for ASC-US findings.

Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for history abnormal papanicolaou test smear

Atypical squamous cells of undetermined significance on cytologic smear of cervix (ASC-US)
Billable Code

Decision Criteria

clinical Criteria

  • Cytology report confirms ASC-US

Applicable To

  • ASC-US

Excludes

  • Normal Pap smear

Clinical Validation Requirements

  • Cytology report indicating ASC-US
  • Bethesda classification

Code-Specific Risks

  • Misclassification if not confirmed by cytology report.

Coding Notes

  • Ensure cytology report is available to validate ASC-US.

Ancillary Codes

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

Encounter for screening for malignant neoplasm of cervix

Z12.4
Use alongside R87.610 for screening context.

Differential Codes

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

Low grade squamous intraepithelial lesion on cytologic smear of cervix (LSIL)

R87.612
Use when cytology report indicates LSIL, not ASC-US.

Inadequate transformation zone sampling on cytologic smear of cervix

R87.616
Use when lab specifies inadequate transformation zone sampling.

Documentation & Coding Risks

Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting History of Abnormal Pap Smear 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 incorrect patient management., Regulatory: Non-compliance with coding standards., Financial: Potential claim denials.

Mitigation Strategy

Use specific terms like ASC-US or LSIL, Attach cytology reports

Impact

Reimbursement: Denial of claims if incorrect code is used., Compliance: Non-compliance with Medicare guidelines., Data Quality: Inaccurate data reporting for Medicare audits.

Mitigation Strategy

Use Z12.4 as primary code for Medicare patients.

Impact

Using R87.61- codes without specifying the sixth character.

Mitigation Strategy

Ensure documentation includes specific cytology findings.

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 History of Abnormal Pap Smear, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.

Documentation Templates for History of Abnormal Pap Smear

Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for History of Abnormal Pap Smear. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.

Repeat Pap Smear after ASC-US

Specialty: OB/GYN

Required Elements

  • Patient history
  • Cytology results
  • Assessment
  • Plan

Example Documentation

35yo F presents for repeat Pap due to 6/2024 ASC-H result (R87.611). HPV co-testing positive. Plan: Colposcopy.

Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation

Poor Documentation Example
Abnormal Pap, follow-up needed
Good Documentation Example
Repeat Pap for 1/2025 ASC-US (R87.610), HPV pending
Explanation
The good example specifies the cytology result and follow-up plan, making it code-ready.

Need help with ICD-10 coding for History of Abnormal Pap Smear? Ask your questions below.

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