ICD-10 Coding for Neck Cancer(C76.0, C79.89)
Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Neck Cancer. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.
Also known as:
Related ICD-10 Code Ranges
Complete code families applicable to Neck Cancer
C76-C80Primary Range
Malignant neoplasms of ill-defined, other secondary and unspecified sites
This range includes codes for malignant neoplasms of the neck when the primary site is unknown or unspecified.
Malignant neoplasms of lip, oral cavity and pharynx
Relevant for coding primary sites within the head and neck region, such as nasopharyngeal 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| C76.0 | Malignant neoplasm of head, face and neck | Use when the primary site is unknown after thorough investigation. |
|
| C79.89 | Secondary malignant neoplasm of other specified sites | Use when metastasis to the neck is from a known primary site. |
|
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 neck cancer
Essential facts and insights about Neck Cancer
Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for neck cancer
Decision Criteria
clinical Criteria
- Primary site remains unidentified after comprehensive diagnostic workup.
Applicable To
- Metastatic cervical lymph nodes with unknown primary
Excludes
- Primary neoplasms of specific head and neck sites
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Negative panendoscopy and PET-CT
- EBV-/p16- by IHC/PCR
Code-Specific Risks
- Misclassification if primary site is later identified.
Coding Notes
- Ensure all diagnostic tests are documented to support the use of C76.0.
C79.89 - Secondary malignant neoplasm of other specified sites
Use when metastasis to the neck is from a known primary site.
Applicable To
- Metastasis to neck from known primary sites
Excludes
- Primary neoplasms of neck
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Documented metastasis from a known primary site
Coding Notes
Ensure linkage to primary site is clear in documentation.
Ancillary Codes
Additional codes that should be used in conjunction with the main diagnosis codes when applicable.
Localized swelling, mass and lump, neck
R22.1Documentation & Coding Risks
Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Neck Cancer to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code C76.0.
Impact
Clinical: May lead to incorrect treatment planning., Regulatory: Non-compliance with cancer registry requirements., Financial: Potential for denied claims due to incomplete documentation.
Mitigation Strategy
Standardize documentation templates, Regular audits of patient records
Impact
Reimbursement: May result in incorrect DRG assignment., Compliance: Non-compliance with coding guidelines., Data Quality: Inaccurate cancer registry data.
Mitigation Strategy
Ensure all diagnostic tests are negative for identifying the primary site.
Impact
Failure to document comprehensive diagnostic workup for unknown primary.
Mitigation Strategy
Implement checklist for diagnostic tests and ensure all results are documented.
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 Neck Cancer, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.
Documentation Templates for Neck Cancer
Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Neck Cancer. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.
Neck Mass with Unknown Primary
Specialty: OncologyRequired Elements
- Patient history
- Diagnostic tests
- EBV/HPV status
- Staging information
Example Documentation
Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation
Poor Documentation Example
Good Documentation Example
Explanation
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