Wiki Neoplasm of uncertain behavior

[kbartrom]

I understand that ICD-9 238.2 (Neoplasm of uncertain behavior of skin) should not be used unless the specimen has been sent to path and a firm distinction between malignant and benign can't be made.

What code does a provider use if she/he is not removing the lesion but referring the patient to a dermatologist?

 

[nsteinhauser]

Have you looked at 239.2?

 

[kbartrom]

I wondered about 239.2. I read that it should seldom be used but perhaps the scenario I described is one of those "seldom" times?

 

[dmaguire]

I would use tabular list Neoplasm, the specific area in question and uncertin behavior if you know it is a neoplasm. If it comes back benign they will use the begnin code. That is what I would do.

DLM

 

[nsteinhauser]

I was taught - a long time ago - that the only time you can use the 'uncertain behavior' diagnosis codes is when the pathology comes back stating exactly that - something with 'uncertain behavior' - you can't use it for a growth that you don't know if it's benign or malignant. This is a good question for CPT Assistant.

diagnosis codes, diagnosis coding

 

[mitchellde]

You use the 709.0 or 709.9 when sending the patient to a specialist. 239 code for unspecified according to the AHA is to be used after a preliminary diagnostic study reveals a diagnosis of a tumor of some sort, it is considered a "working diagnosis" it implies that a preliminary study has shown this to be neither cystic nor an abscess but a tumor which is a neoplastic process that has yet to be determined as to its morphology.

diagnosis codes, diagnosis coding

 

[DeeCPC]

I would use tabular list Neoplasm, the specific area in question and uncertin behavior if you know it is a neoplasm. If it comes back benign they will use the begnin code. That is what I would do.

DLM

I'm sorry, but this is incorrect. Only use 'uncertain behavior' if pathology returns with uncertain morphology. I believe this is explained in the front of the ICD-9.

Dee
CPC, CPMA, CPCD

diagnosis codes, diagnosis coding