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ICD-10 Coding for Solitary Lung Nodule(R91.1, D02.2)

Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Solitary Lung Nodule. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.

Also known as:

Solitary Pulmonary NoduleSPN

Related ICD-10 Code Ranges

Complete code families applicable to Solitary Lung Nodule

R91.0-R91.9Primary Range

Abnormal findings on diagnostic imaging of lung

This range includes codes for abnormal findings on imaging studies of the lung, including solitary pulmonary nodules.

Carcinoma in situ of bronchus and lung

Used when a biopsy confirms carcinoma in situ in a solitary pulmonary nodule.

Personal history of nicotine dependence

Relevant for documenting smoking history which is a risk factor for lung nodules.

Code Comparison: When to Use Each Code

Compare key differences between these codes to ensure accurate selection

CodeDescriptionWhen to UseKey Documentation
R91.1Solitary pulmonary noduleUse when a solitary nodule is detected on imaging without a confirmed diagnosis.
  • Imaging showing a solitary nodule less than 3 cm
  • No prior malignancy diagnosis
D02.2Carcinoma in situ of bronchus and lungUse when biopsy confirms carcinoma in situ in a nodule.
  • Biopsy confirming carcinoma in situ

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 solitary lung nodule

Essential facts and insights about Solitary Lung Nodule

The ICD-10 code for a solitary lung nodule is R91.1, used when a single nodule is detected on imaging without a confirmed diagnosis.

Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for solitary lung nodule

Solitary pulmonary nodule
Billable Code

Decision Criteria

clinical Criteria

  • Imaging shows a solitary nodule without confirmed malignancy.

Applicable To

  • Single lung nodule detected on imaging

Excludes

  • Confirmed malignancy (C34.-)

Clinical Validation Requirements

  • Imaging showing a solitary nodule less than 3 cm
  • No prior malignancy diagnosis

Code-Specific Risks

  • Confusion with R91.8 for multiple nodules

Coding Notes

  • Ensure documentation specifies 'solitary' and includes nodule size.

Ancillary Codes

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

Personal history of nicotine dependence

Z87.891
Use to document smoking history as a risk factor.

Differential Codes

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

Other nonspecific abnormal finding of lung field

R91.8
Use R91.8 for multiple nodules or other nonspecific findings.

Documentation & Coding Risks

Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Solitary Lung Nodule to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code R91.1.

Impact

Clinical: Inadequate follow-up planning., Regulatory: Non-compliance with documentation standards., Financial: Potential claim denials.

Mitigation Strategy

Use structured templates for documentation., Ensure all imaging reports include nodule details.

Impact

Reimbursement: Incorrect coding can lead to denied claims., Compliance: Non-compliance with coding guidelines., Data Quality: Inaccurate health records.

Mitigation Strategy

Use the appropriate cancer code (C34.-) instead.

Impact

Using R91.1 for multiple nodules or confirmed malignancy.

Mitigation Strategy

Regular training on code differentiation and documentation requirements.

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 Solitary Lung Nodule, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.

Documentation Templates for Solitary Lung Nodule

Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Solitary Lung Nodule. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.

Initial detection of solitary lung nodule

Specialty: Pulmonology

Required Elements

  • Nodule size and location
  • Imaging modality used
  • Patient history including smoking
  • Follow-up recommendations

Example Documentation

15mm solitary non-calcified nodule in RUL, smooth margins, no FDG uptake on PET/CT. No prior imaging for comparison. Smoking 20 pack-years.

Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation

Poor Documentation Example
Lung nodule seen. Follow up needed.
Good Documentation Example
8mm solitary solid nodule LLL with spiculated margins (SUV 1.2). No prior studies. Recommend LDCT in 6 months. Smoker: 30 pack-years.
Explanation
The good example provides specific details about the nodule, patient history, and follow-up plan.

Need help with ICD-10 coding for Solitary Lung Nodule? Ask your questions below.

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