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ICD-10 Coding for Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma(C85.90, C83.30, C83.3A)

Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.

Also known as:

NHLLymphoma, Non-Hodgkin

Related ICD-10 Code Ranges

Complete code families applicable to Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma

C82-C86Primary Range

Non-Hodgkin Lymphomas

This range includes all specific types of Non-Hodgkin Lymphomas, covering various subtypes and grades.

Code Comparison: When to Use Each Code

Compare key differences between these codes to ensure accurate selection

CodeDescriptionWhen to UseKey Documentation
C85.90Non-Hodgkin lymphoma, unspecifiedUse when the specific subtype of NHL is not documented.
  • Diagnosis of NHL without further specification
C83.30Diffuse large B-cell lymphoma, unspecified siteUse for active DLBCL when the site is not specified.
  • Biopsy confirming DLBCL
  • Immunohistochemistry showing CD20+
C83.3ADiffuse large B-cell lymphoma in remissionUse when DLBCL is in remission.
  • Remission status confirmed by PET-CT

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 Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma

Essential facts and insights about Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma

The ICD-10 code for unspecified Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma is C85.90. Specific subtypes have different codes, such as C83.30 for diffuse large B-cell lymphoma.

Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for lymphoma non hodgkin

Non-Hodgkin lymphoma, unspecified
Billable Code

Decision Criteria

documentation Criteria

  • Lack of specific subtype documentation

Applicable To

  • Unspecified NHL

Excludes

  • Specific subtypes of NHL

Clinical Validation Requirements

  • Diagnosis of NHL without further specification

Code-Specific Risks

  • Risk of under-documentation leading to incorrect coding.

Coding Notes

  • Ensure to specify the subtype if known to avoid using unspecified codes.

Differential Codes

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

Follicular lymphoma, unspecified

C82.90
Use C82.90 when follicular lymphoma is confirmed but not further specified.

Diffuse large B-cell lymphoma in remission

C83.3A
Use C83.3A for patients in remission confirmed by PET-CT.

Diffuse large B-cell lymphoma, unspecified site

C83.30
Use C83.30 for active disease.

Documentation & Coding Risks

Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code C85.90.

Impact

Clinical: May lead to inappropriate treatment planning., Regulatory: Non-compliance with documentation standards., Financial: Potential for incorrect billing.

Mitigation Strategy

Always specify if the disease is active or in remission., Use appropriate history codes when applicable.

Impact

Reimbursement: May lead to lower reimbursement rates., Compliance: Non-compliance with coding guidelines., Data Quality: Decreases the accuracy of patient records.

Mitigation Strategy

Always document and code the specific subtype of NHL.

Impact

Failure to document remission status accurately.

Mitigation Strategy

Implement regular audits of oncology documentation.

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 Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.

Documentation Templates for Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma

Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.

Oncology Progress Note

Specialty: Oncology

Required Elements

  • Subjective symptoms
  • Objective findings
  • Assessment
  • Plan

Example Documentation

**Subjective**: Pt reports night sweats and 10% weight loss over 2 months. **Objective**: Lymphadenopathy: 3 cm right cervical node. Labs: LDH 320 U/L, β2-microglobulin 4.2 mg/L. Biopsy: Diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (C83.3), CD20+, BCL2+. **Assessment**: DLBCL, stage IIIB (Ann Arbor), IPI score 3. **Plan**: R-CHOP q21 days ×6 cycles; repeat PET-CT after cycle 4.

Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation

Poor Documentation Example
Lymphoma, stable
Good Documentation Example
Follicular lymphoma grade II (C82.1), CD20+, stage IIIA per Lugano criteria
Explanation
The good example specifies the subtype, grade, and staging, which are necessary for accurate coding.

Need help with ICD-10 coding for Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma? Ask your questions below.

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