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 CodesC31.1

C31.1

Billable

Malignant neoplasm of ethmoidal sinus

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

Code Description

ICD-10 C31.1 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of malignant neoplasm of ethmoidal sinus.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Malignant neoplasm of the ethmoidal sinus refers to cancerous growths that originate in the ethmoid sinus, which is located between the nose and the eyes. This type of cancer is relatively rare and can present with various symptoms, including nasal obstruction, facial pain, and epistaxis (nosebleeds). Diagnosis typically involves imaging studies such as CT scans or MRIs to assess the extent of the tumor and its impact on surrounding structures. Treatment often requires a multidisciplinary approach, including surgical resection, radiation therapy, and possibly chemotherapy, depending on the stage and aggressiveness of the tumor. Accurate coding is essential for proper treatment planning and reimbursement, as well as for tracking outcomes in patients with this condition.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Variability in presentation and symptoms among patients
  • Need for precise imaging interpretation to determine tumor extent
  • Potential for overlapping symptoms with benign conditions
  • Multidisciplinary treatment approaches complicating coding

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of imaging results
  • Failure to document the extent of disease
  • Misclassification of tumor type or stage
  • Lack of clarity in treatment plans

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Otolaryngology

Documentation Requirements

Detailed notes on symptoms, imaging findings, and treatment plans are essential.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients presenting with nasal obstruction, facial pain, or recurrent sinus infections.

Billing Considerations

Ensure that all imaging studies are clearly documented and correlate with clinical findings.

Oncology

Documentation Requirements

Comprehensive staging information and treatment protocols must be documented.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients undergoing chemotherapy or radiation therapy for ethmoidal sinus malignancies.

Billing Considerations

Documentation should include response to treatment and any complications.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use C31.1 When
  • Follow official ICD
  • CM guidelines for coding neoplasms, including the need for accurate documentation of the site, type, and behavior of the tumor
  • Ensure that the coding reflects the most current clinical findings and treatment plans

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use C31.1 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

31255CPT Code

Nasal endoscopy with biopsy

Clinical Scenario

Used when a biopsy is performed to confirm malignancy.

Documentation Requirements

Document the indication for the procedure and findings.

Specialty Considerations

Otolaryngologists should ensure that all findings are clearly 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, improving the accuracy of data collection and reimbursement processes. C31.1 provides a clear designation for ethmoidal sinus malignancies, which aids in treatment planning and research.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of malignancies, improving the accuracy of data collection and reimbursement processes. C31.1 provides a clear designation for ethmoidal sinus malignancies, which aids in treatment planning and research.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

reimbursement processes. C31.1 provides a clear designation for ethmoidal sinus malignancies, which aids in treatment planning and research.

Resources

Clinical References

  • •
    American Academy of Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery

Coding & Billing References

  • •
    American Academy of Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the common symptoms of a malignant neoplasm of the ethmoidal sinus?

Common symptoms include nasal obstruction, facial pain, epistaxis, and potentially visual disturbances if the tumor invades surrounding structures.

How is a malignant neoplasm of the ethmoidal sinus diagnosed?

Diagnosis typically involves imaging studies such as CT or MRI, followed by a biopsy to confirm malignancy.

What treatment options are available for this condition?

Treatment often includes surgical resection, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy, depending on the tumor's type and stage.