ICD-10 Logo
ICDxICD-10 Medical Coding
ICD-10 Logo
ICDxICD-10 Medical Coding
ICD 10 CodesDiagnoses
ICD 10 CodesDiagnoses
ICD-10 Logo
ICDxICD-10 Medical Coding

Comprehensive ICD-10-CM code reference with AI-powered search capabilities.

© 2025 ICD Code Compass. All rights reserved.

Browse

  • All Chapters
  • All Categories
  • Diagnoses

Tools

  • AI Code Search
ICD-10-CM codes are maintained by the CDC and CMS. This tool is for reference purposes only.
v1.0.0
ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesChapter 2: NeoplasmsC16

C16

Billable

Malignant neoplasm of stomach

Chapter 2:Neoplasms

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

Code Description

ICD-10 C16 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of malignant neoplasm of stomach.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Malignant neoplasm of the stomach, commonly referred to as gastric cancer, is a significant health concern worldwide. It arises from the gastric epithelium and can be associated with various risk factors, including chronic infection with Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori), dietary factors, and genetic predispositions. Gastric cancer is often asymptomatic in its early stages, leading to late diagnosis and poor prognosis. Symptoms may include abdominal pain, weight loss, nausea, and changes in appetite. The disease is staged using the TNM classification system, which assesses tumor size (T), lymph node involvement (N), and presence of metastasis (M). Treatment options typically include surgical resection, such as gastrectomy, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy, depending on the stage of the cancer. Early detection and intervention are crucial for improving outcomes, making awareness of risk factors and symptoms essential for healthcare providers.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: High

High Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Variety of staging systems (TNM classification)
  • Differential diagnosis with benign gastric conditions
  • Potential for multiple treatment modalities
  • Need for precise documentation of tumor characteristics

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of staging
  • Misclassification of tumor type
  • Failure to document H. pylori status
  • Incorrect coding of surgical procedures

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Oncology

Documentation Requirements

Detailed pathology reports, staging information, and treatment plans.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Diagnosis and management of gastric cancer, follow-up care post-gastrectomy.

Billing Considerations

Ensure accurate documentation of tumor size, location, and lymph node involvement.

Gastroenterology

Documentation Requirements

Endoscopy reports, biopsy results, and H. pylori testing.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Evaluation of gastric symptoms, management of H. pylori infection.

Billing Considerations

Document any findings from endoscopic procedures and treatment responses.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use C16 When
  • Follow the official ICD
  • CM coding guidelines, ensuring accurate documentation of the cancer stage and any associated conditions
  • Include details on the type of gastric cancer and any relevant treatments

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use C16 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related CPT Codes

43631CPT Code

Laparoscopic total gastrectomy

Clinical Scenario

Used for patients diagnosed with gastric cancer requiring surgical intervention.

Documentation Requirements

Operative report detailing the procedure and findings.

Specialty Considerations

Oncology and surgery must coordinate documentation for accurate coding.

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of gastric cancer, improving the accuracy of data collection and reimbursement processes. The granularity of codes helps in tracking treatment outcomes and epidemiological studies.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of gastric cancer, improving the accuracy of data collection and reimbursement processes. The granularity of codes helps in tracking treatment outcomes and epidemiological studies.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

reimbursement processes. The granularity of codes helps in tracking treatment outcomes and epidemiological studies.

Resources

Clinical References

  • •
    American Cancer Society - Gastric Cancer

Coding & Billing References

  • •
    American Cancer Society - Gastric Cancer

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the primary risk factor for gastric cancer?

The primary risk factor for gastric cancer is chronic infection with Helicobacter pylori, which can lead to inflammation and changes in the gastric epithelium.