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ICD-10 Coding for Nasopharyngeal Mass(C11.9, D10.6)

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

Also known as:

Nasopharyngeal TumorNasopharyngeal Lesion

Related ICD-10 Code Ranges

Complete code families applicable to Nasopharyngeal Mass

C11-C11.9Primary Range

Malignant neoplasms of nasopharynx

Primary range for malignant nasopharyngeal masses.

Benign neoplasms of nasopharynx

Used for benign nasopharyngeal masses.

Code Comparison: When to Use Each Code

Compare key differences between these codes to ensure accurate selection

CodeDescriptionWhen to UseKey Documentation
C11.9Malignant neoplasm of nasopharynx, unspecifiedUse when a malignant neoplasm of the nasopharynx is confirmed.
  • Biopsy-confirmed squamous cell carcinoma
  • Imaging showing invasive characteristics
D10.6Benign neoplasm of nasopharynxUse when a benign neoplasm of the nasopharynx is confirmed.
  • Biopsy confirms benign pathology
  • Imaging shows non-invasive characteristics

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 nasopharyngeal mass

Essential facts and insights about Nasopharyngeal Mass

The ICD-10 code for a malignant nasopharyngeal mass is C11.9, while a benign mass is coded as D10.6.

Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for nasopharyngeal mass

Malignant neoplasm of nasopharynx, unspecified
Billable Code

Decision Criteria

clinical Criteria

  • Biopsy confirms malignancy

documentation Criteria

  • Detailed histological report available

Applicable To

  • Nasopharyngeal carcinoma

Excludes

  • Benign nasopharyngeal neoplasm (D10.6)

Clinical Validation Requirements

  • Biopsy-confirmed squamous cell carcinoma
  • Imaging showing invasive characteristics

Code-Specific Risks

  • Misclassification without histological confirmation

Coding Notes

  • Ensure malignancy is confirmed via biopsy before using C11.9.

Ancillary Codes

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

Other specified symptoms involving the circulatory and respiratory systems

R09.89
Use for symptoms like epistaxis or nasal obstruction.

Other diseases of upper respiratory tract

J39.2
Use for associated upper airway obstruction.

Differential Codes

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

Benign neoplasm of nasopharynx

D10.6
Use when biopsy confirms benign pathology.

Malignant neoplasm of nasopharynx, unspecified

C11.9
Use when malignancy is confirmed.

Documentation & Coding Risks

Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Nasopharyngeal Mass to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code C11.9.

Impact

Clinical: Leads to potential misdiagnosis., Regulatory: Non-compliance with coding standards., Financial: May result in claim denials.

Mitigation Strategy

Ensure biopsy results are included in the patient's chart., Verify documentation before coding.

Impact

Reimbursement: Incorrect coding may lead to denied claims., Compliance: Non-compliance with coding guidelines., Data Quality: Inaccurate clinical data reporting.

Mitigation Strategy

Code R09.89 until malignancy is confirmed.

Impact

Lack of detailed histological confirmation can lead to audit issues.

Mitigation Strategy

Ensure all biopsy results are documented and accessible.

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

Documentation Templates for Nasopharyngeal Mass

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

Nasopharyngeal Mass Evaluation

Specialty: Otolaryngology

Required Elements

  • Location and size of mass
  • Biopsy results
  • Imaging findings
  • EBV status

Example Documentation

Location: Right nasopharynx, Size: 3 cm, Biopsy: Squamous cell carcinoma, Imaging: MRI shows parapharyngeal extension.

Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation

Poor Documentation Example
Nasopharyngeal mass observed.
Good Documentation Example
3.2 cm ulcerated mass in right nasopharynx extending to torus tubarius. Biopsy: nonkeratinizing SCC, EBER-ISH positive. MRI shows parapharyngeal invasion.
Explanation
The good example provides detailed size, location, histology, and imaging findings, which are essential for accurate coding.

Need help with ICD-10 coding for Nasopharyngeal Mass? Ask your questions below.

Ask about any ICD-10 CM code, or paste a medical note

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