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ICD-10 Coding for Lesion of Pancreas(K86.2, C25.9)

Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Lesion of Pancreas. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.

Also known as:

Pancreatic LesionPancreatic Mass

Related ICD-10 Code Ranges

Complete code families applicable to Lesion of Pancreas

K86.2-K86.3Primary Range

Other specified diseases of pancreas

This range includes codes for pancreatic cysts and pseudocysts, which are common forms of pancreatic lesions.

Malignant neoplasm of pancreas

This range covers malignant neoplasms of the pancreas, which are critical for differentiating malignant lesions from benign ones.

Code Comparison: When to Use Each Code

Compare key differences between these codes to ensure accurate selection

CodeDescriptionWhen to UseKey Documentation
K86.2Cyst of pancreasUse for simple pancreatic cysts identified via imaging.
  • Imaging confirmation of fluid-filled cyst without epithelial lining
C25.9Malignant neoplasm of pancreas, unspecifiedUse when malignancy is confirmed but specific site is not documented.
  • Pathology report confirming adenocarcinoma

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 pancreatic cyst

Essential facts and insights about Lesion of Pancreas

The ICD-10 code for a pancreatic cyst is K86.2, used for simple cysts confirmed by imaging.

Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for lesion of pancreas

Cyst of pancreas
Billable Code

Decision Criteria

clinical Criteria

  • Cyst confirmed via imaging as non-mucinous.

Applicable To

  • Simple pancreatic cysts

Excludes

  • Pseudocyst of pancreas (K86.3)

Clinical Validation Requirements

  • Imaging confirmation of fluid-filled cyst without epithelial lining

Code-Specific Risks

  • Risk of misclassification if cyst is mucinous.

Coding Notes

  • Ensure cyst is non-mucinous before coding.

Differential Codes

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

Pseudocyst of pancreas

K86.3
Pseudocysts are non-epithelialized and often follow pancreatitis.

Malignant neoplasm of head of pancreas

C25.0
Use when the tumor is located in the head of the pancreas.

Documentation & Coding Risks

Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Lesion of Pancreas to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code K86.2.

Impact

Clinical: Leads to misdiagnosis and inappropriate treatment., Regulatory: Non-compliance with coding standards., Financial: Potential for denied claims due to lack of specificity.

Mitigation Strategy

Always include imaging and biopsy details., Use specific terminology for lesion type.

Impact

Reimbursement: May lead to incorrect DRG assignment and affect reimbursement., Compliance: Increases risk of audit and non-compliance., Data Quality: Leads to inaccurate clinical data and reporting.

Mitigation Strategy

Always verify the specific location and type of lesion before coding.

Impact

High risk of audit if unspecified codes are used without justification.

Mitigation Strategy

Ensure documentation supports the specificity of the code used.

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 Lesion of Pancreas, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.

Documentation Templates for Lesion of Pancreas

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

Pancreatic cyst evaluation

Specialty: Gastroenterology

Required Elements

  • Location of cyst
  • Size and characteristics
  • Imaging findings
  • Biopsy results

Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation

Poor Documentation Example
Pancreatic mass seen on CT. Follow up needed.
Good Documentation Example
Location: Head of pancreas; Size: 2.4 cm; Characteristics: Hypodense on CT with peripheral enhancement; Biopsy: Mucinous epithelium on EUS-FNA; Molecular: KRAS mutation detected.
Explanation
The good example provides detailed imaging and biopsy results, supporting accurate coding.

Need help with ICD-10 coding for Lesion of Pancreas? Ask your questions below.

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