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: NeoplasmsC24

C24

Billable

Malignant neoplasm of other and unspecified parts of biliary tract

Chapter 2:Neoplasms

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

Code Description

ICD-10 C24 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of malignant neoplasm of other and unspecified parts of biliary tract.

Key Diagnostic Point:

C24 refers to malignant neoplasms that occur in the biliary tract, excluding the gallbladder and extrahepatic bile ducts, which are classified under different codes. The biliary tract includes the intrahepatic bile ducts, the ampulla of Vater, and other unspecified parts. These cancers can present with various symptoms, including jaundice, abdominal pain, and weight loss. Imaging studies such as ultrasound, CT scans, and MRIs are crucial for diagnosis, often revealing bile duct obstruction, mass lesions, or lymphadenopathy. Surgical challenges include the complexity of the biliary anatomy and the potential for metastasis, which can complicate resection. The prognosis for biliary tract cancers is generally poor, with early detection being critical for improving outcomes. Treatment often involves a multidisciplinary approach, including surgery, chemotherapy, and palliative care.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: High

High Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Variability in anatomical locations within the biliary tract
  • Need for precise imaging interpretation
  • Differentiation from benign biliary conditions
  • Potential for metastasis complicating coding

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of imaging findings
  • Failure to specify the exact location of the neoplasm
  • Misclassification of benign vs malignant conditions
  • Incomplete staging information

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Oncology

Documentation Requirements

Detailed pathology reports, imaging studies, and treatment plans.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Diagnosis and management of biliary tract cancers, including staging and treatment response.

Billing Considerations

Ensure accurate documentation of tumor location and staging to support coding.

Gastroenterology

Documentation Requirements

Endoscopic findings, imaging results, and biopsy reports.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Evaluation of biliary obstruction and management of biliary tract malignancies.

Billing Considerations

Documenting the clinical rationale for imaging and interventions is crucial.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use C24 When
  • Follow official coding guidelines for malignancies, ensuring accurate documentation of the site, stage, and treatment
  • Include any relevant imaging findings and pathology results to support the diagnosis

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use C24 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related CPT Codes

47563CPT Code

Laparoscopic cholecystectomy

Clinical Scenario

Often performed in cases of biliary obstruction due to malignancy.

Documentation Requirements

Operative reports detailing the procedure and findings.

Specialty Considerations

Ensure accurate coding of the procedure in relation to the diagnosis.

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of biliary tract cancers, improving the accuracy of data collection and reimbursement processes. It has also enhanced the ability to track outcomes and treatment efficacy.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of biliary tract cancers, improving the accuracy of data collection and reimbursement processes. It has also enhanced the ability to track outcomes and treatment efficacy.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

reimbursement processes. It has also enhanced the ability to track outcomes and treatment efficacy.

Resources

Clinical References

  • •
    American Cancer Society - Biliary Tract Cancer

Coding & Billing References

  • •
    American Cancer Society - Biliary Tract Cancer

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the common symptoms of biliary tract cancers?

Common symptoms include jaundice, abdominal pain, weight loss, and pruritus. Patients may also experience dark urine and pale stools.

How is a biliary tract cancer diagnosed?

Diagnosis typically involves imaging studies such as ultrasound, CT, or MRI, followed by biopsy for histological confirmation.

What is the prognosis for biliary tract cancers?

The prognosis is generally poor, with early detection being critical for improving outcomes. Treatment often involves a combination of surgery, chemotherapy, and palliative care.