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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesC79.7

C79.7

Billable

Secondary malignant neoplasm of adrenal gland

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

Code Description

ICD-10 C79.7 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of secondary malignant neoplasm of adrenal gland.

Key Diagnostic Point:

C79.7 refers to secondary malignant neoplasms that have metastasized to the adrenal glands from a primary cancer located elsewhere in the body. This condition is characterized by the presence of malignant cells in the adrenal glands, which are small glands located on top of each kidney that produce hormones essential for various bodily functions. The adrenal glands can be affected by metastases from a variety of primary cancers, including lung, breast, and kidney cancers. The diagnosis of secondary malignant neoplasm of the adrenal gland typically involves imaging studies such as CT scans or MRIs, which can reveal the presence of tumors. Staging of the disease is crucial, as it helps determine the extent of metastasis and guides treatment options. Palliative care considerations are also important, as patients with metastatic disease often experience significant symptoms that require management, including pain control and psychological support. The prognosis for patients with secondary malignant neoplasms of the adrenal gland varies depending on the primary cancer type, the extent of metastasis, and the overall health of the patient.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Determining the primary site of cancer can be challenging.
  • Need for accurate staging to guide treatment decisions.
  • Potential for multiple metastatic sites complicating coding.
  • Documentation must clearly indicate the metastatic nature of the disease.

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of the primary cancer site.
  • Failure to document the metastatic nature of the adrenal lesion.
  • Misclassification of primary versus secondary tumors.
  • Lack of staging information in the medical record.

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Oncology

Documentation Requirements

Comprehensive documentation of the primary cancer, staging, and treatment plans.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients presenting with known primary cancers who develop adrenal metastases.

Billing Considerations

Ensure clarity in distinguishing between primary adrenal tumors and secondary malignancies.

Endocrinology

Documentation Requirements

Detailed hormonal assessments and imaging results related to adrenal function.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients with adrenal insufficiency or hormonal imbalances due to metastatic disease.

Billing Considerations

Document any endocrine dysfunctions resulting from adrenal metastases.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use C79.7 When
  • According to ICD
  • 10 coding guidelines, C79
  • 7 should be used when there is clear documentation of metastatic disease to the adrenal glands from a known primary cancer
  • Coders must ensure that the primary site is documented and that the metastatic nature is explicitly stated

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use C79.7 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

74177CPT Code

CT scan abdomen and pelvis with contrast

Clinical Scenario

Used to evaluate suspected adrenal metastases.

Documentation Requirements

Document indication for imaging and findings.

Specialty Considerations

Oncology and radiology must collaborate on imaging interpretation.

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of metastatic diseases, including secondary malignant neoplasms of the adrenal gland. This specificity aids in better tracking of cancer prevalence and treatment outcomes.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of metastatic diseases, including secondary malignant neoplasms of the adrenal gland. This specificity aids in better tracking of cancer prevalence and treatment outcomes.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of metastatic diseases, including secondary malignant neoplasms of the adrenal gland. This specificity aids in better tracking of cancer prevalence and treatment outcomes.

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 is the difference between primary and secondary adrenal neoplasms?

Primary adrenal neoplasms originate in the adrenal glands, while secondary adrenal neoplasms are metastatic tumors that have spread from other primary cancers.