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v1.0.0
ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesC16.4

C16.4

Billable

Malignant neoplasm of pylorus

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

Code Description

ICD-10 C16.4 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of malignant neoplasm of pylorus.

Key Diagnostic Point:

C16.4 refers to a malignant neoplasm located at the pylorus, which is the opening from the stomach into the duodenum. Gastric cancer, particularly at the pyloric region, is often associated with chronic infection by Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori), a bacterium that can lead to gastric inflammation and is a known risk factor for gastric adenocarcinoma. The clinical presentation may include symptoms such as abdominal pain, weight loss, nausea, and vomiting. Diagnosis typically involves endoscopy with biopsy, imaging studies, and staging to determine the extent of the disease. Staging is crucial as it influences treatment options, which may include surgical resection (gastrectomy), chemotherapy, and radiation therapy. Gastrectomy, particularly partial or total gastrectomy, is a common surgical intervention for pyloric malignancies, and careful coding is required to reflect the complexity of the procedure and any complications that may arise. Accurate coding for C16.4 is essential for appropriate treatment planning and reimbursement.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: High

High Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Differentiating between malignant and benign conditions
  • Staging of cancer which requires detailed documentation
  • Association with H. pylori and its implications for treatment
  • Variability in surgical procedures (partial vs. total gastrectomy)

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of staging
  • Failure to document H. pylori testing and treatment
  • Incorrect coding of surgical procedures performed
  • Lack of clarity in symptom documentation

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Oncology

Documentation Requirements

Detailed pathology reports, staging information, and treatment plans.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients presenting with gastric symptoms, diagnosed with pyloric cancer, undergoing chemotherapy or surgery.

Billing Considerations

Ensure all treatment modalities are documented, including any clinical trials or experimental therapies.

Gastroenterology

Documentation Requirements

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

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients with dyspepsia or gastric ulcers being evaluated for malignancy.

Billing Considerations

Document the rationale for endoscopic procedures and any findings that may indicate malignancy.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use C16.4 When
  • Follow the official ICD
  • CM coding guidelines, ensuring accurate documentation of the malignancy's location, staging, and any associated conditions
  • Include details on the treatment plan and any complications

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use C16.4 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

43631CPT Code

Laparoscopic partial gastrectomy

Clinical Scenario

Used for patients undergoing surgical resection of pyloric malignancy.

Documentation Requirements

Operative report detailing the procedure, findings, and any complications.

Specialty Considerations

Ensure the surgical approach is clearly documented.

43239CPT Code

Esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD) with biopsy

Clinical Scenario

Used for diagnosis and staging of pyloric cancer.

Documentation Requirements

Endoscopy report with biopsy results and any findings.

Specialty Considerations

Document the indication for the procedure and any abnormalities found.

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of gastric cancers, including C16.4, which improves data accuracy and enhances the ability to track treatment outcomes and epidemiological trends.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of gastric cancers, including C16.4, which improves data accuracy and enhances the ability to track treatment outcomes and epidemiological trends.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

reimbursement.

Resources

Clinical References

  • •
    ICD-10-CM Official Guidelines for Coding and Reporting
  • •
    American Cancer Society - Gastric Cancer

Coding & Billing References

  • •
    ICD-10-CM Official Guidelines for Coding and Reporting
  • •
    American Cancer Society - Gastric Cancer

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the common symptoms of malignant neoplasm of the pylorus?

Common symptoms include abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, weight loss, and changes in appetite. Patients may also experience gastric obstruction symptoms.

How is pyloric cancer diagnosed?

Diagnosis typically involves endoscopy with biopsy, imaging studies such as CT scans, and staging to determine the extent of the disease.

What is the role of H. pylori in pyloric cancer?

H. pylori infection is a significant risk factor for gastric cancer, including pyloric malignancies, as it can lead to chronic inflammation and dysplasia.