ICD-10 Coding for Glioma(C71.9, M9440/3)
Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Glioma. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.
Also known as:
Related ICD-10 Code Ranges
Complete code families applicable to Glioma
Code Comparison: When to Use Each Code
Compare key differences between these codes to ensure accurate selection
| Code | Description | When to Use | Key Documentation |
|---|---|---|---|
| C71.9 | Malignant neoplasm of brain, unspecified | Use when the specific location within the brain is not documented. |
|
| M9440/3 | Glioblastoma | Use for histologically confirmed glioblastoma. |
|
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 glioblastoma
Essential facts and insights about Glioma
Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for glioma
Decision Criteria
clinical Criteria
- Presence of malignant glioma confirmed by pathology.
Applicable To
- Glioblastoma
- Astrocytoma
Excludes
- Benign brain neoplasm (D33._)
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Histological confirmation of malignancy
- MRI findings consistent with malignant glioma
Code-Specific Risks
- Risk of under-coding if specific site is known but not documented.
Coding Notes
- Ensure histological type is documented for accurate coding.
M9440/3 - Glioblastoma
Use for histologically confirmed glioblastoma.
Applicable To
- Glioblastoma multiforme
Excludes
- Low-grade glioma (D43._)
Clinical Validation Requirements
- WHO grade IV confirmation
- IDH-wildtype or mutant status
Coding Notes
Ensure molecular markers are documented for accurate coding.
Ancillary Codes
Additional codes that should be used in conjunction with the main diagnosis codes when applicable.
Documentation & Coding Risks
Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Glioma to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code C71.9.
Impact
Clinical: Affects treatment decisions., Regulatory: Non-compliance with documentation standards., Financial: Potential for denied claims.
Mitigation Strategy
Use standardized templates., Cross-check pathology reports.
Impact
Reimbursement: Incorrect coding can lead to denied claims., Compliance: Non-compliance with coding guidelines., Data Quality: Inaccurate clinical data reporting.
Mitigation Strategy
Always verify histology before coding.
Impact
Lack of detailed histological and molecular data.
Mitigation Strategy
Implement comprehensive documentation protocols.
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 Glioma, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.
Documentation Templates for Glioma
Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Glioma. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.
Initial diagnosis of glioblastoma
Specialty: OncologyRequired Elements
- Chief complaint
- Imaging results
- Pathology findings
- Molecular markers
Example Documentation
Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation
Poor Documentation Example
Good Documentation Example
Explanation
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