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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesC72.21

C72.21

Billable

Malignant neoplasm of right olfactory nerve

BILLABLE STATUSYes
IMPLEMENTATION DATEOctober 1, 2015
LAST UPDATED09/05/2025

Code Description

ICD-10 C72.21 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of malignant neoplasm of right olfactory nerve.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Malignant neoplasm of the right olfactory nerve is a rare and aggressive tumor that arises from the olfactory nerve, which is responsible for the sense of smell. This neoplasm can lead to significant neurological deficits, including anosmia (loss of smell), and may present with symptoms such as headaches, seizures, and changes in behavior or cognition due to increased intracranial pressure or local invasion. Imaging studies, particularly MRI, are crucial for diagnosis, as they can reveal the extent of the tumor and its relationship to surrounding structures. Treatment typically involves surgical resection, radiation therapy, and possibly chemotherapy, depending on the tumor's characteristics and staging. Molecular markers, such as IDH1 mutations and 1p/19q co-deletion status, may provide prognostic information and guide treatment decisions. Given the central nervous system's complexity, multidisciplinary management is often required to address the various aspects of care for patients with this condition.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: High

High Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Rarity of the condition leading to limited coding resources
  • Need for precise documentation of tumor location and characteristics
  • Potential for overlapping symptoms with other CNS tumors
  • Complexity of treatment modalities and their documentation

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of imaging findings
  • Failure to specify the laterality of the tumor
  • Misclassification of tumor type or behavior
  • Lack of clarity in treatment documentation

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Neurology

Documentation Requirements

Detailed neurological examination findings, imaging reports, and treatment plans.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients presenting with anosmia, seizures, or headaches requiring imaging.

Billing Considerations

Neurologists must document neurological deficits and their progression to support the diagnosis.

Oncology

Documentation Requirements

Pathology reports, treatment regimens, and follow-up care details.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Management of patients undergoing chemotherapy or radiation therapy for olfactory nerve tumors.

Billing Considerations

Oncologists should document molecular markers and their implications for treatment.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use C72.21 When
  • According to ICD
  • 10 guidelines, C72
  • 21 should be used when the malignant neoplasm is confirmed through histopathological examination
  • It is essential to document the laterality and specific characteristics of the tumor

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use C72.21 When
  • Exclusion criteria include benign neoplasms of the olfactory nerve

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

61510CPT Code

Craniotomy for excision of tumor

Clinical Scenario

Used when a patient undergoes surgical resection of the olfactory nerve tumor.

Documentation Requirements

Operative reports detailing the procedure and findings.

Specialty Considerations

Neurosurgeons must document the extent of resection and any complications.

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of CNS tumors, including those of the olfactory nerve, improving data accuracy and facilitating better patient management.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of CNS tumors, including those of the olfactory nerve, improving data accuracy and facilitating better patient management.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

reimbursement.

Resources

Clinical References

  • •
    ICD-10-CM Official Guidelines for Coding and Reporting

Coding & Billing References

  • •
    ICD-10-CM Official Guidelines for Coding and Reporting

Frequently Asked Questions

What imaging is required for diagnosing C72.21?

MRI is the preferred imaging modality for diagnosing malignant neoplasms of the olfactory nerve, as it provides detailed information about the tumor's size, location, and relationship to surrounding structures.