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ICD-10 Coding for Pineal Cyst(D35.4)

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

Also known as:

Pineal Gland CystBenign Pineal Neoplasm

Related ICD-10 Code Ranges

Complete code families applicable to Pineal Cyst

D35.2-D35.4Primary Range

Benign neoplasms of the endocrine glands

This range includes benign neoplasms of the pineal gland, which are coded under D35.4.

Cerebral cysts

Used when the pineal cyst extends into adjacent brain parenchyma.

Key Information: ICD-10 code for pineal cyst

Essential facts and insights about Pineal Cyst

The ICD-10 code for a benign pineal cyst is D35.4, which covers benign neoplasms of the pineal gland.

Primary ICD-10-CM Code for pineal cyst

Benign neoplasm of pineal gland
Billable Code

Decision Criteria

clinical Criteria

  • MRI shows a well-circumscribed cystic lesion ≤2 cm in pineal region without nodular enhancement

coding Criteria

  • Avoid using E34.8 for structural lesions

Applicable To

  • Benign pineal cyst

Excludes

  • Malignant neoplasm of pineal gland

Clinical Validation Requirements

  • MRI shows a well-circumscribed cystic lesion ≤2 cm in pineal region without nodular enhancement
  • Histology confirms glial-lined cyst with pineal parenchyma

Code-Specific Risks

  • Misclassification as an endocrine disorder using E34.8

Coding Notes

  • Ensure documentation specifies 'benign neoplasm of pineal gland' to use D35.4.

Ancillary Codes

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

Cerebral cysts

G93.0
Use if the cyst extends into adjacent brain parenchyma.

Differential Codes

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

Other specified endocrine disorders

E34.8
Use for functional endocrine disorders without structural lesions.

Documentation & Coding Risks

Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Pineal Cyst to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code D35.4.

Impact

Clinical: May lead to inappropriate treatment decisions., Regulatory: Non-compliance with coding standards., Financial: Potential claim denials or audits.

Mitigation Strategy

Educate providers on documentation requirements, Use templates for consistent reporting

Impact

Reimbursement: Incorrect coding may lead to claim denials., Compliance: Non-compliance with ICD-10 coding guidelines., Data Quality: Inaccurate data on benign neoplasms.

Mitigation Strategy

Ensure documentation specifies 'benign neoplasm of pineal gland' and use D35.4.

Impact

Using E34.8 instead of D35.4 for benign pineal cysts.

Mitigation Strategy

Educate coders on the correct use of D35.4.

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

Documentation Templates for Pineal Cyst

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

Pineal cyst identified on MRI

Specialty: Radiology

Required Elements

  • Size and characteristics of the cyst
  • Presence or absence of enhancement
  • Comparison with previous imaging

Example Documentation

MRI reveals a 12mm cystic lesion in the pineal gland with smooth margins and no enhancement, consistent with benign pineal neoplasm.

Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation

Poor Documentation Example
Pineal cyst noted on MRI.
Good Documentation Example
3T MRI demonstrates 11mm non-enhancing pineal cyst (FIESTA sequence shows Type 1 internal architecture) without tectal compression or aqueductal stenosis. Stable compared to 2023 study.
Explanation
The good example provides detailed imaging findings and comparison with previous studies, supporting the benign nature of the cyst.

Need help with ICD-10 coding for Pineal Cyst? Ask your questions below.

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