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ICD-10 Coding for Breast Pain(N64.4)

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

Also known as:

MastodyniaMastalgia

Related ICD-10 Code Ranges

Complete code families applicable to Breast Pain

N60-N64Primary Range

Noninflammatory disorders of breast

This range includes codes for various noninflammatory breast disorders, including mastodynia (N64.4), which is the primary code for breast pain.

Inflammatory disorders of breast

This range includes codes for inflammatory conditions like mastitis, which can also cause breast pain.

Key Information: ICD-10 code for breast pain

Essential facts and insights about Breast Pain

The ICD-10 code for breast pain is N64.4, used for mastodynia without underlying pathology.

Primary ICD-10-CM Code for breast pain

Mastodynia
Billable Code

Decision Criteria

clinical Criteria

  • Pain is cyclical and correlates with menstrual cycle.

coding Criteria

  • No underlying condition like infection or neoplasm is present.

Applicable To

  • Breast pain

Excludes

  • Breast pain due to prosthesis complications (T85.4)

Clinical Validation Requirements

  • Negative imaging results
  • Absence of palpable mass
  • Exclusion of other conditions like infection or neoplasm

Code-Specific Risks

  • Using N64.4 when there is an underlying condition like mastitis.

Coding Notes

  • Ensure documentation specifies cyclical vs. non-cyclical nature of pain.

Ancillary Codes

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

Encounter for screening mammogram

Z01.419
Use when a screening mammogram is performed to rule out other conditions.

Differential Codes

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

Breast abscess

N61.1
Presence of erythema, fluctuance, or purulent discharge.

Other chest pain

R07.89
Pain not localized to breast tissue.

Documentation & Coding Risks

Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Breast Pain to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code N64.4.

Impact

Clinical: May lead to misdiagnosis., Regulatory: Non-compliance with coding standards., Financial: Potential claim denials.

Mitigation Strategy

Ensure imaging results are included in the patient's record., Verify documentation before coding.

Impact

Reimbursement: Incorrect coding can lead to denied claims., Compliance: Non-compliance with coding guidelines., Data Quality: Inaccurate data on breast pain prevalence.

Mitigation Strategy

Code N61.0 for mastitis first.

Impact

Using N64.4 when an underlying condition is present.

Mitigation Strategy

Review clinical documentation for underlying conditions.

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 Breast Pain, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.

Documentation Templates for Breast Pain

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

Cyclical breast pain in OB/GYN

Specialty: OB/GYN

Required Elements

  • History of present illness
  • Physical examination findings
  • Imaging results
  • Assessment and plan

Example Documentation

34yo F c/o bilateral breast pain ×3 cycles, worsening 10 days pre-menses. Denies nipple discharge. No masses, dimpling, or lymphadenopathy. Mild tenderness upper outer quadrants. Ultrasound negative for cysts/masses. Assessed as cyclical mastodynia (N64.4).

Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation

Poor Documentation Example
Breast pain. Will order mammogram.
Good Documentation Example
Bilateral breast pain ×2 months, cyclical (onset 14 days pre-menses), resolves post-menses. No masses/nipple discharge. Screening mammogram (77067) BI-RADS 2. Assessed as cyclical mastodynia (N64.4).
Explanation
The good example includes detailed history, exam findings, imaging results, and a clear assessment.

Need help with ICD-10 coding for Breast Pain? Ask your questions below.

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