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ICD-10 Coding for Renal Mass(C64.1, C64.2, C64.9)

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

Also known as:

Kidney MassRenal TumorKidney Tumorrenal lesion

Related ICD-10 Code Ranges

Complete code families applicable to Renal Mass

C64-C64.9Primary Range

Malignant neoplasm of kidney, except renal pelvis

This range includes codes for malignant neoplasms of the kidney, specifying laterality.

Other disorders of kidney and ureter

This range includes codes for non-malignant conditions such as renal cysts.

Neoplasms of unspecified behavior

This range is used for neoplasms of uncertain behavior, including complex cysts without biopsy confirmation.

Code Comparison: When to Use Each Code

Compare key differences between these codes to ensure accurate selection

CodeDescriptionWhen to UseKey Documentation
C64.1Malignant neoplasm of right kidney, except renal pelvisUse when imaging confirms a malignant mass in the right kidney and biopsy confirms renal cell carcinoma.
  • CT/MRI showing ≥20 HU enhancement
  • Biopsy-proven RCC with subtype
C64.2Malignant neoplasm of left kidney, except renal pelvisUse when imaging confirms a malignant mass in the left kidney and biopsy confirms renal cell carcinoma.
  • CT/MRI showing ≥20 HU enhancement
  • Biopsy-proven RCC with subtype
C64.9Malignant neoplasm of unspecified kidney, except renal pelvisUse when imaging confirms a malignant mass in the kidney but laterality is not specified.
  • CT/MRI showing ≥20 HU enhancement
  • Biopsy-proven RCC with subtype

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 renal mass

Essential facts and insights about Renal Mass

The ICD-10 codes for renal mass include C64.1 for right kidney, C64.2 for left kidney, and C64.9 for unspecified kidney.

Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for renal mass

Malignant neoplasm of right kidney, except renal pelvis
Billable Code

Decision Criteria

clinical Criteria

  • Biopsy confirms renal cell carcinoma

documentation Criteria

  • Imaging report specifies laterality and enhancement

Applicable To

  • Renal cell carcinoma of right kidney

Excludes

  • Malignant neoplasm of renal pelvis (C65.1)

Clinical Validation Requirements

  • CT/MRI showing ≥20 HU enhancement
  • Biopsy-proven RCC with subtype

Code-Specific Risks

  • Incorrect laterality coding
  • Coding without biopsy confirmation

Coding Notes

  • Ensure laterality is documented and confirmed by imaging.

Ancillary Codes

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

Other specified disorders of kidney and ureter

N28.89
Use for non-malignant renal cysts.

Differential Codes

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

Neoplasm of unspecified behavior of kidney

D49.51
Use when biopsy is not performed and malignancy is not confirmed.

Documentation & Coding Risks

Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Renal Mass to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code C64.1.

Impact

Clinical: May lead to incorrect treatment planning., Regulatory: Non-compliance with documentation standards., Financial: Potential claim denials or reduced reimbursement.

Mitigation Strategy

Always verify laterality in imaging reports., Use structured templates that prompt for laterality.

Impact

Reimbursement: Potential denial of claims due to lack of confirmation., Compliance: Non-compliance with coding guidelines., Data Quality: Inaccurate data representation of patient condition.

Mitigation Strategy

Use renal mass code until biopsy confirms malignancy.

Impact

Reimbursement: Claims may be denied or require resubmission., Compliance: Violation of coding standards., Data Quality: Misleading clinical data affecting treatment decisions.

Mitigation Strategy

Verify laterality through imaging reports before coding.

Impact

High risk of audit if laterality is not documented.

Mitigation Strategy

Implement mandatory fields in EHR for laterality.

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 Renal Mass, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.

Documentation Templates for Renal Mass

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

Renal Mass Evaluation

Specialty: Urology

Required Elements

  • Mass size and location
  • Enhancement characteristics
  • Biopsy results
  • CKD stage

Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation

Poor Documentation Example
Right renal mass identified
Good Documentation Example
3.2 cm heterogeneously enhancing right renal mass (pre-contrast 35 HU, post 98 HU) with no macroscopic fat. Bosniak IV complex cystic component in upper pole.
Explanation
The good example provides specific imaging details and classification, essential for accurate coding.

Need help with ICD-10 coding for Renal Mass? Ask your questions below.

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