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

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

Also known as:

MastodyniaBreast Pain

Related ICD-10 Code Ranges

Complete code families applicable to Breast Tenderness

N60-N64Primary Range

Disorders of breast

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

Pain, not elsewhere classified

Used when the encounter is primarily for pain management, with codes like G89.11 for acute pain.

Key Information: ICD-10 code for breast tenderness

Essential facts and insights about Breast Tenderness

The ICD-10 code for breast tenderness is N64.4, used for isolated breast pain without identifiable pathology.

Primary ICD-10-CM Code for breast tenderness

Mastodynia
Billable Code

Decision Criteria

clinical Criteria

  • Presence of breast tenderness without masses or other identifiable pathology.

documentation Criteria

  • Detailed documentation of laterality and cyclical nature.

Applicable To

  • Breast tenderness
  • Breast pain

Excludes

Clinical Validation Requirements

  • Documentation of laterality and quadrant
  • Cyclical vs non-cyclical pattern
  • Associated symptoms and findings

Code-Specific Risks

  • Confusion with chest pain codes
  • Lack of laterality leading to denials

Coding Notes

  • Ensure documentation specifies laterality and quadrant to avoid unspecified coding.

Ancillary Codes

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

Acute pain due to trauma

G89.11
Use when the encounter is primarily for pain management.

Differential Codes

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

Chest pain on breathing

R07.1
Use only if the provider specifies the pain originates from the chest wall.

Documentation & Coding Risks

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

Impact

Clinical: Leads to incomplete clinical assessment., Regulatory: Non-compliance with ICD-10 coding guidelines., Financial: Potential for claim denials.

Mitigation Strategy

Train staff on the importance of detailed documentation., Use templates that prompt for laterality.

Impact

Reimbursement: May lead to denials or reduced reimbursement., Compliance: Non-compliance with coding guidelines., Data Quality: Impacts the accuracy of clinical data.

Mitigation Strategy

Ensure documentation includes laterality and quadrant details.

Impact

Using unspecified codes when specific details are available.

Mitigation Strategy

Ensure documentation includes all required details such as laterality and quadrant.

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

Documentation Templates for Breast Tenderness

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

Cyclical Breast Tenderness

Specialty: OB/GYN

Required Elements

  • Laterality
  • Cyclical pattern
  • Associated findings
  • Palpation details

Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation

Poor Documentation Example
Patient complains of breast pain. Advised OTC analgesics.
Good Documentation Example
39F with 3-month history of cyclical, bilateral upper outer quadrant breast tenderness (7/10 intensity), worsening 10 days pre-menses. No masses on vertical strip palpation. Negative mammogram 3/2025. Dense breast tissue noted. DDx: Cyclical mastalgia vs fibrocystic changes.
Explanation
The good example provides detailed documentation of the cyclical nature, laterality, and associated findings, which supports accurate coding.

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

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