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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesC18.0

C18.0

Billable

Malignant neoplasm of cecum

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

Code Description

ICD-10 C18.0 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of malignant neoplasm of cecum.

Key Diagnostic Point:

C18.0 refers to a malignant neoplasm located in the cecum, which is the first part of the large intestine. This type of cancer is part of the broader category of colorectal cancer, which is characterized by the uncontrolled growth of abnormal cells in the colon or rectum. The cecum is particularly susceptible to adenocarcinomas, which are the most common type of colorectal cancer. Risk factors include age, family history, certain genetic syndromes, and lifestyle factors such as diet and physical inactivity. Symptoms may include abdominal pain, changes in bowel habits, and unexplained weight loss. Screening for colorectal cancer typically involves colonoscopy, which allows for direct visualization and potential biopsy of suspicious lesions. Staging of cecal cancer is crucial for determining treatment options and prognosis, with staging systems such as the AJCC (American Joint Committee on Cancer) being commonly used. Additionally, the presence of microsatellite instability (MSI) can influence treatment decisions, particularly regarding immunotherapy. Surgical approaches often involve resection of the affected segment of the bowel, and may include procedures such as hemicolectomy or total colectomy, depending on the extent of the disease.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Variety of staging systems used (AJCC, FIGO)
  • Need for precise documentation of tumor size and location
  • Differentiation between primary and metastatic lesions
  • Potential for multiple treatment modalities (surgery, chemotherapy, radiation)

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of staging
  • Failure to specify tumor size and location
  • Misclassification of benign versus malignant lesions
  • Inconsistent coding of treatment modalities

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Oncology

Documentation Requirements

Detailed pathology reports, imaging studies, and treatment plans are essential.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Initial diagnosis, staging, and treatment planning for cecal cancer.

Billing Considerations

Ensure accurate coding of any neoadjuvant or adjuvant therapies.

Gastroenterology

Documentation Requirements

Endoscopy reports, biopsy results, and patient history.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Screening colonoscopies, polypectomies, and follow-up care.

Billing Considerations

Document any findings related to polyps or other lesions in the cecum.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use C18.0 When
  • Follow the official ICD
  • CM coding guidelines, ensuring accurate documentation of the diagnosis, staging, and any associated conditions
  • Include details on the tumor's size, location, and any relevant treatment history

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use C18.0 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

44160CPT Code

Partial colectomy

Clinical Scenario

Used for resection of the cecum in cases of malignant neoplasm.

Documentation Requirements

Operative report detailing the procedure and findings.

Specialty Considerations

Oncology and surgery specialties should coordinate documentation.

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of cecal cancer, improving the accuracy of data collection and reimbursement processes. It has also facilitated better tracking of treatment outcomes and epidemiological studies.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of cecal cancer, improving the accuracy of data collection and reimbursement processes. It has also facilitated better tracking of treatment outcomes and epidemiological studies.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

reimbursement processes. It has also facilitated better tracking of treatment outcomes and epidemiological studies.

Resources

Clinical References

  • •
    American Cancer Society - Colorectal Cancer

Coding & Billing References

  • •
    American Cancer Society - Colorectal Cancer

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the common symptoms of cecal cancer?

Common symptoms include abdominal pain, changes in bowel habits, unexplained weight loss, and anemia. Some patients may also experience bowel obstruction.