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Oncology & Hematology Coding Alert

READER QUESTIONS:

Sift Through In Situ Synonyms

Published on Mon Nov 14, 2005

Question: My report indicates a -noninfiltrating carcinoma- of the pelvic wall. What is the proper diagnosis code for this condition?


Connecticut Subscriber
Answer: -Noninfiltrating- may be another way of saying -carcinoma in situ.- If your physician confirms this diagnosis, the code you need is 234.8 (Carcinoma in situ of other and unspecified sites; other specified sites).

The term -carcinoma in situ- refers to tumor cells undergoing malignant changes but not invading the surrounding tissue. Your oncologist may also refer to these as intraepithelial, noninvasive, or preinvasive carcinoma, but ask him to specify -in situ- when that is the appropriate diagnosis. Other conditions may be non-infiltrating, and you don't want to appear to diagnose the patient yourself.

Caution: Payers may be reluctant to cover radiation treatment for carcinoma in situ diagnoses. Prepare to educate your insurer with clinical information supporting the need for radiation therapy for your patient.
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