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 CodesC31.0

C31.0

Billable

Malignant neoplasm of maxillary sinus

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

Code Description

ICD-10 C31.0 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of malignant neoplasm of maxillary sinus.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Malignant neoplasm of the maxillary sinus is a rare but serious condition characterized by the uncontrolled growth of abnormal cells in the maxillary sinus, which is located within the cheekbone. This type of cancer can arise from various cell types, including squamous cells, adenocarcinoma, and others. Symptoms may include nasal obstruction, facial pain or swelling, epistaxis (nosebleeds), and changes in vision if the tumor invades surrounding structures. Diagnosis typically involves imaging studies such as CT or MRI scans, which help visualize the extent of the tumor and its relationship to adjacent anatomical structures. Biopsy is often required for definitive diagnosis. Treatment options may include surgical resection, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy, depending on the stage and type of malignancy. Early detection and intervention are crucial for improving patient outcomes, as maxillary sinus cancers can be aggressive and may metastasize if not treated promptly.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Variability in presentation and symptoms can lead to misdiagnosis.
  • Need for precise imaging interpretation to determine tumor extent.
  • Differentiation from benign conditions such as sinusitis.
  • Documentation of staging and histological type is essential for accurate coding.

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of tumor type and stage.
  • Failure to document imaging studies performed.
  • Misclassification of the neoplasm as benign.
  • Lack of clarity in treatment plans and outcomes.

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Otolaryngology

Documentation Requirements

Detailed clinical notes on symptoms, imaging results, and treatment plans.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients presenting with nasal obstruction and facial pain requiring imaging and biopsy.

Billing Considerations

Ensure accurate staging and histological classification are documented.

Oncology

Documentation Requirements

Comprehensive treatment plans including chemotherapy and radiation details.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Management of advanced maxillary sinus cancer with multi-disciplinary approaches.

Billing Considerations

Documentation of response to treatment and follow-up imaging is critical.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use C31.0 When
  • Follow official ICD
  • CM coding guidelines, ensuring accurate documentation of the neoplasm's type, stage, and any associated conditions
  • Include details from imaging studies and pathology reports to support the diagnosis

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use C31.0 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

30140CPT Code

Nasal/sinus endoscopy, diagnostic, with or without biopsy

Clinical Scenario

Used when performing a biopsy of a suspected maxillary sinus malignancy.

Documentation Requirements

Document the findings of the endoscopy and any biopsies taken.

Specialty Considerations

Otolaryngologists should ensure thorough documentation of the procedure and findings.

30130CPT Code

Nasal/sinus endoscopy, surgical

Clinical Scenario

Used for surgical intervention in cases of maxillary sinus malignancy.

Documentation Requirements

Detailed operative notes and pathology results are required.

Specialty Considerations

Ensure that the surgical approach and any complications are documented.

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of malignancies, including those of the maxillary sinus. This specificity aids in better tracking of cancer incidence and treatment outcomes, improving patient care.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of malignancies, including those of the maxillary sinus. This specificity aids in better tracking of cancer incidence and treatment outcomes, improving patient care.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of malignancies, including those of the maxillary sinus. This specificity aids in better tracking of cancer incidence and treatment outcomes, improving patient care.

Resources

Clinical References

  • •
    American Academy of Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery
  • •
    National Cancer Institute - Sinus Cancer

Coding & Billing References

  • •
    American Academy of Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery
  • •
    National Cancer Institute - Sinus Cancer

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the common symptoms of maxillary sinus malignancy?

Common symptoms include nasal obstruction, facial pain or swelling, epistaxis, and changes in vision. These symptoms can often mimic benign conditions, making diagnosis challenging.

How is maxillary sinus cancer diagnosed?

Diagnosis typically involves imaging studies such as CT or MRI scans, followed by a biopsy to confirm the histological type of the malignancy.

What treatment options are available for maxillary sinus malignancy?

Treatment options may include surgical resection, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy, depending on the type and stage of the cancer.