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v1.0.0
ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesChapter 2: NeoplasmsC10

C10

Billable

Malignant neoplasm of oropharynx

Chapter 2:Neoplasms

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

Code Description

ICD-10 C10 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of malignant neoplasm of oropharynx.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Malignant neoplasm of the oropharynx encompasses cancers that arise in the oropharyngeal region, which includes the base of the tongue, the tonsils, the soft palate, and the walls of the pharynx. These cancers can be associated with various risk factors, including tobacco use, alcohol consumption, and human papillomavirus (HPV) infection. HPV-positive oropharyngeal cancers have been increasingly recognized, particularly among younger populations, and are often associated with a better prognosis compared to HPV-negative cases. The clinical presentation may include dysphagia, odynophagia, neck masses, and changes in voice. Diagnosis typically involves imaging studies, endoscopy, and biopsy. Treatment often includes a combination of surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy, with radiation therapy being a common modality for localized disease. The management of oropharyngeal cancers requires a multidisciplinary approach, including oncologists, surgeons, and radiation therapists, to optimize outcomes and manage potential complications.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Differentiating between HPV-positive and HPV-negative cases
  • Variability in treatment protocols based on staging
  • Need for precise documentation of tumor location and size
  • Potential for multiple treatment modalities affecting coding

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inaccurate documentation of HPV status
  • Failure to document staging and treatment details
  • Misclassification of tumor location
  • Inconsistent coding of associated conditions

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Oncology

Documentation Requirements

Detailed treatment plans, staging information, and HPV status documentation are essential.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Management of newly diagnosed oropharyngeal cancer, follow-up care post-treatment.

Billing Considerations

Ensure accurate coding of treatment modalities and any complications arising from therapy.

Otolaryngology

Documentation Requirements

Comprehensive notes on physical examinations, imaging results, and biopsy findings.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Surgical interventions for tumor removal, management of complications.

Billing Considerations

Document the extent of surgical resection and any reconstructive procedures performed.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use C10 When
  • Follow the official ICD
  • CM coding guidelines, ensuring accurate documentation of the primary site, histology, and any relevant HPV status
  • Include staging information when available

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use C10 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related CPT Codes

99203CPT Code

Office or other outpatient visit for the evaluation and management of a new patient

Clinical Scenario

Used for initial consultation for oropharyngeal cancer diagnosis.

Documentation Requirements

Document history, examination findings, and any diagnostic tests ordered.

Specialty Considerations

Oncology specialists should ensure comprehensive documentation of cancer staging.

38792CPT Code

Radiation therapy, treatment delivery

Clinical Scenario

Used when radiation therapy is administered for oropharyngeal cancer.

Documentation Requirements

Document treatment plan, dosage, and patient response.

Specialty Considerations

Radiation oncologists must detail the treatment course and any side effects.

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of oropharyngeal cancers, including differentiation based on HPV status, which is crucial for treatment planning and prognosis.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of oropharyngeal cancers, including differentiation based on HPV status, which is crucial for treatment planning and prognosis.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of oropharyngeal cancers, including differentiation based on HPV status, which is crucial for treatment planning and prognosis.

Resources

Clinical References

  • •
    American Cancer Society - Oropharyngeal Cancer

Coding & Billing References

  • •
    American Cancer Society - Oropharyngeal Cancer

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the significance of HPV status in oropharyngeal cancer?

HPV status is crucial as it influences prognosis and treatment options. HPV-positive oropharyngeal cancers generally have a better prognosis and may require different treatment approaches compared to HPV-negative cases.