Back to HomeBeta

ICD-10 Coding for Nipple Discharge(N64.52)

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

Also known as:

Breast DischargeMammary Discharge

Related ICD-10 Code Ranges

Complete code families applicable to Nipple Discharge

N60-N64Primary Range

Disorders of breast

This range includes codes for various breast disorders, including nipple discharge.

Abnormal findings on examination of breast

Used when nipple discharge is an incidental finding without a specific diagnosis.

Key Information: ICD-10 code for nipple discharge

Essential facts and insights about Nipple Discharge

The ICD-10 code for nipple discharge is N64.52, used for spontaneous unilateral or bilateral discharge without confirmed pathology.

Primary ICD-10-CM Code for nipple discharge

Nipple discharge
Billable Code

Decision Criteria

clinical Criteria

  • Presence of spontaneous unilateral serosanguineous discharge

documentation Criteria

  • Detailed description of discharge including laterality and characteristics

Applicable To

  • Spontaneous unilateral serosanguineous discharge

Excludes

  • Galactorrhea (N64.3)
  • Abnormal findings on examination of breast (R89)

Clinical Validation Requirements

  • Documentation of laterality, spontaneity, and discharge characteristics
  • Supporting imaging or cytology results

Code-Specific Risks

  • Confusing with galactorrhea or postpartum lactation
  • Not specifying laterality

Coding Notes

  • Ensure documentation includes discharge characteristics and any associated symptoms.

Ancillary Codes

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

Abnormal findings on examination of breast

R89.4
Use when discharge is noted during routine examination without symptoms.

Differential Codes

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

Galactorrhea not associated with childbirth

N64.3
Use when discharge is milky and unrelated to pregnancy or lactation.

Documentation & Coding Risks

Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Nipple Discharge to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code N64.52.

Impact

Clinical: May lead to incorrect treatment planning., Regulatory: Increases risk of audit failures., Financial: Potential for claim denials.

Mitigation Strategy

Use templates that prompt for laterality, Educate staff on documentation standards

Impact

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

Mitigation Strategy

Use N64.3 for galactorrhea and include E22.2 if hyperprolactinemia is present.

Impact

Inadequate documentation can lead to audit flags.

Mitigation Strategy

Implement thorough documentation practices and regular audits.

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

Documentation Templates for Nipple Discharge

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

Spontaneous unilateral nipple discharge

Specialty: OB/GYN

Required Elements

  • History of present illness
  • Physical examination findings
  • Diagnostic tests ordered

Example Documentation

**HPI**: 42F c/o spontaneous R nipple bloody discharge x 3 weeks. No breast mass/pain. **Exam**: Serosanguineous discharge from single duct, R nipple. No peau d’orange. **Plan**: Diagnostic ductogram ordered (CPT 77031). Code: N64.52

Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation

Poor Documentation Example
Nipple discharge noted.
Good Documentation Example
Spontaneous unilateral bloody discharge from left nipple, single duct, no palpable mass.
Explanation
The good example provides specific details about the discharge, including laterality and characteristics, which are essential for accurate coding.

Need help with ICD-10 coding for Nipple Discharge? Ask your questions below.

Ask about any ICD-10 CM code, or paste a medical note

We build tools for
clinician happiness.

Learn More at Freed.ai
Back to HomeBeta

Built by Freed

Try Freed for free for 7 days.

Learn more