ICD-10 Coding for Non-Small Cell Lung Carcinoma(C34.90, M8012/3)
Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Non-Small Cell Lung Carcinoma. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.
Also known as:
Related ICD-10 Code Ranges
Complete code families applicable to Non-Small Cell Lung Carcinoma
C34.0-C34.9Primary Range
Malignant neoplasm of bronchus and lung
This range includes codes for primary lung cancer, including non-small cell lung carcinoma.
Large cell carcinoma
Used when histopathology specifies large cell carcinoma, a subtype of NSCLC.
Code Comparison: When to Use Each Code
Compare key differences between these codes to ensure accurate selection
| Code | Description | When to Use | Key Documentation |
|---|---|---|---|
| C34.90 | Malignant neoplasm of unspecified part of unspecified bronchus or lung | Use when NSCLC is diagnosed without further specification of histology or laterality. |
|
| M8012/3 | Large cell carcinoma | Use when histopathology specifies large cell carcinoma. |
|
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 non-small cell lung carcinoma
Essential facts and insights about Non-Small Cell Lung Carcinoma
Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for non-small cell carcinoma
Decision Criteria
documentation Criteria
- Histology and laterality must be documented if known.
Applicable To
- Non-small cell lung cancer, NOS
Excludes
- Small cell lung cancer
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Diagnosis of NSCLC without specified histology or laterality
Code-Specific Risks
- Risk of under-coding if histology or laterality is known but not documented.
Coding Notes
- Ensure documentation specifies histology and laterality when known.
M8012/3 - Large cell carcinoma
Use when histopathology specifies large cell carcinoma.
Applicable To
- Large cell carcinoma of lung
Excludes
- Small cell carcinoma
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Histopathology report confirming large cell carcinoma
Coding Notes
Ensure histology is confirmed by pathology before coding.
Ancillary Codes
Additional codes that should be used in conjunction with the main diagnosis codes when applicable.
Personal history of other malignant neoplasm of bronchus and lung
Z85.118Differential Codes
Alternative codes to consider when ruling out similar conditions to the primary diagnosis.
Documentation & Coding Risks
Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Non-Small Cell Lung Carcinoma to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code C34.90.
Impact
Clinical: May affect treatment decisions., Regulatory: Non-compliance with coding standards., Financial: Potential for reduced reimbursement.
Mitigation Strategy
Always document laterality in clinical notes., Verify imaging reports for laterality.
Impact
Reimbursement: May lead to lower reimbursement rates., Compliance: Non-compliance with coding guidelines., Data Quality: Decreased accuracy in cancer registry data.
Mitigation Strategy
Use specific histology codes when available.
Impact
Failure to document specific histology can lead to audit issues.
Mitigation Strategy
Ensure pathology reports are detailed and included in patient records.
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 Non-Small Cell Lung Carcinoma, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.
Documentation Templates for Non-Small Cell Lung Carcinoma
Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Non-Small Cell Lung Carcinoma. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.
Initial diagnosis of NSCLC
Specialty: OncologyRequired Elements
- Diagnosis
- Histology
- Staging
- Treatment plan
Example Documentation
Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation
Poor Documentation Example
Good Documentation Example
Explanation
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