Advanced Search

Oncology & Hematology Coding Alert

Reader Question:

Lymph Node Coding

Published on Fri Feb 01, 2002

Question: Is it appropriate to use 202.10 for mycosis fungoides, plaque stage when there is no node involvement?

New Jersey Subscriber  
Answer: Mycosis fungoides, a type of cutaneous, T-cell lymphoma, may evolve into generalized lymphoma, formerly thought to be fungoid in origin. It is usually present in lymph nodes. This diagnosis always requires a fifth digit that defines lymph node or spleen involvement. 
 
The fifth-digit subclassification is used specifically for malignant neoplasms of lymphatic and hematopoietic tissue (200-208). These subclassifications should not be used with secondary neoplasm of bone marrow (198.5), spleen (197.8), or secondary and unspecified neoplasm of lymph nodes (196.0-196.9)
 
Note: See CPT 2002 for a full description of fifth-digit subclassifications.
 
In your situation, if there is no lymph node involvement or no spleen involvement (202.17), it is correct to code 202.10. 
You’ve reached your limit of free articles. Already a subscriber? Log in.
Not a subscriber? Subscribe today to continue reading this article. Plus, you’ll get:
  • Simple explanations of current healthcare regulations and payer programs
  • Real-world reporting scenarios solved by our expert coders
  • Industry news, such as MAC and RAC activities, the OIG Work Plan, and CERT reports
  • Instant access to every article ever published in your eNewsletter
  • 6 annual AAPC-approved CEUs*
  • The latest updates for CPT®, ICD-10-CM, HCPCS Level II, NCCI edits, modifiers, compliance, technology, practice management, and more
*CEUs available with select eNewsletters.

Other Articles in this issue of

Oncology & Hematology Coding Alert

View All