• If this is your first visit, be sure to check out the FAQ & read the forum rules. To view all forums, post or create a new thread, you must be an AAPC Member. If you are a member and have already registered for member area and forum access, you can log in by clicking here. If you've forgotten the password it can be reset on our sign in section by entering your registered Email Address or Username here. To start viewing messages, select the forum that you want to visit from the selection below..

Wiki Atypical Nevus

Create Wiki
P

pennysueorr

Networker
Messages
65
Location
Seacoast
Best answers
0
I'm in a battle over the correct code for this.

238.2 or 216._

anyone have some suggestions? I say its 216._ but I have a non-coder questioning me.

HELP!
 
Based on the definition below an atypical nevus is an unusual benign mole. So coding it as benign probably makes sense. I have heard this argument before, and I have had very knowledgeable people have two completely different opinions. You could query the physician to make sure he/she is completely comfortable labeling it as benign.



Dysplastic Nevi - SkinCancer.orgwww.skincancer.org/skin-cancer-information/dysplastic-neviCached
Dysplastic Nevi (atypical moles) are unusual benign moles that may resemble melanoma
 
pennysueorr said:
I'm in a battle over the correct code for this.

238.2 or 216._

anyone have some suggestions? I say its 216._ but I have a non-coder questioning me.

HELP!
Click to expand...

When you look up "nevus" in the Index it directs you to Neoplasm, skin, benign. Go to that section and the codes under the benign heading are in the 216.x category. Now the diagnosis also stated "atypical" so perhaps the 238.2 would be more accurate since it indicated uncertain behavior. Without more information I would be tempted to go with the 238.2 until there is a determination by pathology.
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Top