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ICD-10 Coding for History of Laryngeal Cancer(Z85.21)

Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for History of Laryngeal Cancer. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.

Also known as:

History of Laryngeal NeoplasmPast Laryngeal Cancerhistory larynx cancerpostlaryngectomy status

Related ICD-10 Code Ranges

Complete code families applicable to History of Laryngeal Cancer

Z85-Z92Primary Range

Personal history of malignant neoplasms

This range includes codes for personal history of malignant neoplasms, including laryngeal cancer.

Malignant neoplasm of larynx

This range includes codes for active malignant neoplasms of the larynx.

Key Information: When to use Z85.21 for laryngeal cancer

Essential facts and insights about History of Laryngeal Cancer

Z85.21 is used for patients with a history of laryngeal cancer who are not undergoing active treatment and have no evidence of recurrence.

Primary ICD-10-CM Code for history laryngeal cancer

Personal history of malignant neoplasm of larynx
Billable Code

Decision Criteria

clinical Criteria

  • No active treatment or recurrence

documentation Criteria

  • Clear documentation of history and treatment status

Applicable To

  • History of laryngeal cancer

Excludes

  • Active laryngeal cancer (C32.-)

Clinical Validation Requirements

  • No active treatment for laryngeal cancer
  • No evidence of recurrence on imaging or biopsy
  • Surveillance visits only

Code-Specific Risks

  • Misclassification as active cancer if documentation is unclear

Coding Notes

  • Ensure documentation clearly states the cancer is historical and not active.

Ancillary Codes

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

History of tobacco dependence

Z87.891
Use if the patient has a history of tobacco use.

Tobacco use

Z72.0
Use if the patient currently uses tobacco.

Alcohol abuse/dependence

F10.-
Use if applicable to the patient's history.

Differential Codes

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

Malignant neoplasm of larynx, unspecified

C32.9
Use C32.9 for active laryngeal cancer cases.

Documentation & Coding Risks

Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting History of Laryngeal Cancer to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code Z85.21.

Impact

Clinical: Misrepresentation of patient's current condition., Regulatory: Potential audit issues., Financial: Incorrect billing and reimbursement.

Mitigation Strategy

Verify treatment status before coding.

Impact

Reimbursement: Incorrect coding may lead to denied claims., Compliance: Non-compliance with coding guidelines., Data Quality: Inaccurate patient records.

Mitigation Strategy

Use R93.2 for abnormal imaging and confirm with biopsy before coding as active cancer.

Impact

Misclassification of cancer status can lead to audit findings.

Mitigation Strategy

Ensure clear documentation of treatment status and recurrence.

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

Documentation Templates for History of Laryngeal Cancer

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

Routine follow-up for history of laryngeal cancer

Specialty: Oncology

Required Elements

  • Patient history
  • Treatment details
  • Surveillance results

Example Documentation

Patient with history of laryngeal SCC, treated with laryngectomy in 2020, no evidence of recurrence.

Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation

Poor Documentation Example
Hx of larynx CA
Good Documentation Example
History of stage III squamous cell carcinoma of the glottis (2019), treated with radiation. No evidence of disease since 2021.
Explanation
The good example provides specific details about the cancer type, treatment, and current status.

Need help with ICD-10 coding for History of Laryngeal Cancer? Ask your questions below.

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