Wiki Mammogram Coding

[sharmela3201]

I'm trying to determine the correct IDC-10 code to use for "benign-appearing lymph nodes in the axillary area". Not sure if R59.0(Axillary lymphadenopathy-large armpit lymph nodes)
is correct, as it does not state they're enlarged, or if I89.9-Noninfective disorder of lymphatic vessels and lymph nodes, unspecified, is more accurate. Please help

 

[ccditroia@gmail.com]

I think you need to query the provider for a little more information..."benign appearing..." does not sound like a definitive diagnosis. It would be more difficult to decide on which code would be most appropriate.

 

[sharmela3201]

Thank you, I’ll speak with her today

 

[ens555]

Thank you, I’ll speak with her today

Consider using the radiologist BI-RADS comments on the mammogram report to help guide you. I have found that for a screening mammogram with a BI-RADS of '1' the radiologist is indicating that no follow up is needed and thus, generally, no diagnosis is needed other than the screening mammogram code. Contrast this with BI-RADS '0' where the radiologist is recommending timely follow up to investigate a finding. Here a secondary diagnosis is needed.