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ICD-10 Coding for Pancreatic Lesion(K86.2, C25.9, D13.6)

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

Also known as:

Pancreatic MassPancreatic CystPancreatic Neoplasm

Related ICD-10 Code Ranges

Complete code families applicable to Pancreatic Lesion

K86.2Primary Range

Cyst of pancreas

Used for non-neoplastic pancreatic cysts.

Malignant neoplasm of pancreas, unspecified

Used for unspecified malignant neoplasms of the pancreas.

Benign neoplasm of pancreas

Used for benign neoplasms of the pancreas.

Code Comparison: When to Use Each Code

Compare key differences between these codes to ensure accurate selection

CodeDescriptionWhen to UseKey Documentation
K86.2Cyst of pancreasFor non-neoplastic pancreatic cysts confirmed by imaging.
  • Imaging showing unilocular cyst <3 cm
  • No septations or mural nodules
C25.9Malignant neoplasm of pancreas, unspecifiedFor confirmed malignant neoplasms when specific type is not identified.
  • CA19-9 >37 U/mL
  • Ill-defined mass on CT
D13.6Benign neoplasm of pancreasFor benign pancreatic lesions confirmed by imaging and histology.
  • MRI showing well-demarcated lesion
  • Normal tumor markers

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 pancreatic cyst

Essential facts and insights about Pancreatic Lesion

The ICD-10 code for a pancreatic cyst is K86.2, used for non-neoplastic cysts confirmed by imaging.

Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for pancreatic lesion

Cyst of pancreas
Billable Code

Decision Criteria

clinical Criteria

  • Presence of a fluid-filled sac without solid components.

Applicable To

  • Pancreatic pseudocyst

Excludes

  • Cystic fibrosis (E84.-)

Clinical Validation Requirements

  • Imaging showing unilocular cyst <3 cm
  • No septations or mural nodules

Code-Specific Risks

  • Confusion with neoplastic cysts if not properly documented.

Coding Notes

  • Ensure imaging reports are detailed to differentiate from neoplastic lesions.

Ancillary Codes

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

Unspecified abdominal pain

R10.9
Use when abdominal pain is present with the cyst.

Secondary malignant neoplasm of liver

C78.7
Use if liver metastases are present.

Chronic pancreatitis

K86.1
Use if chronic pancreatitis is present with the lesion.

Differential Codes

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

Malignant neoplasm of pancreas, unspecified

C25.9
Use when malignancy is confirmed but specific type is not identified.

Benign neoplasm of pancreas

D13.6
Use when the lesion is confirmed benign by histology.

Documentation & Coding Risks

Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Pancreatic Lesion to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code K86.2.

Impact

Clinical: Misrepresentation of the patient's condition., Regulatory: Non-compliance with coding guidelines., Financial: Potential for claim denials.

Mitigation Strategy

Verify lesion type with imaging and histology., Use specific codes for benign lesions.

Impact

Reimbursement: Incorrect coding can lead to denied claims., Compliance: Non-compliance with coding standards., Data Quality: Impacts accuracy of clinical data.

Mitigation Strategy

Ensure detailed imaging and histological reports are included.

Impact

Lack of histological confirmation for malignant codes.

Mitigation Strategy

Ensure biopsy results are documented before coding.

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

Documentation Templates for Pancreatic Lesion

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

Pancreatic cyst evaluation

Specialty: Gastroenterology

Required Elements

  • Imaging findings
  • Cyst characteristics
  • Laboratory results

Example Documentation

CT abdomen shows a 3 cm unilocular cyst in the pancreatic tail without septations.

Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation

Poor Documentation Example
Pancreatic mass observed.
Good Documentation Example
3 cm unilocular cyst in pancreatic tail without septations or mural nodules.
Explanation
The good example provides specific details necessary for accurate coding.

Need help with ICD-10 coding for Pancreatic Lesion? Ask your questions below.

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

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