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v1.0.0
ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesC34.0

C34.0

Billable

Malignant neoplasm of main bronchus

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

Code Description

ICD-10 C34.0 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of malignant neoplasm of main bronchus.

Key Diagnostic Point:

C34.0 refers to malignant neoplasms located in the main bronchus, which is a critical airway structure leading to the lungs. This type of lung cancer is often associated with significant morbidity and mortality, primarily due to its aggressive nature and late presentation. The main bronchus is divided into the right and left bronchus, and tumors can arise from either side. Risk factors include a strong history of smoking, exposure to secondhand smoke, and environmental pollutants. Symptoms may include persistent cough, hemoptysis, wheezing, and chest pain. Staging of bronchial cancer is crucial for determining treatment options and prognosis, typically following the TNM classification system, which assesses tumor size (T), lymph node involvement (N), and distant metastasis (M). Molecular markers such as EGFR mutations and ALK rearrangements are increasingly important in guiding targeted therapies. Treatment algorithms may involve a combination of surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy, depending on the stage and specific characteristics of the tumor.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: High

High Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Variety of staging systems (TNM, AJCC)
  • Need for precise documentation of tumor location and size
  • Variability in treatment protocols based on molecular markers
  • Potential for multiple co-morbid conditions affecting coding

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of smoking history
  • Failure to document staging details
  • Misclassification of tumor type or location
  • Lack of supporting evidence for treatment decisions

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Oncology

Documentation Requirements

Detailed pathology reports, imaging studies, and treatment plans.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Initial diagnosis of lung cancer, staging workup, and treatment planning.

Billing Considerations

Ensure accurate documentation of molecular testing results and treatment response.

Pulmonology

Documentation Requirements

Pulmonary function tests, imaging, and clinical notes on respiratory symptoms.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Management of respiratory symptoms in patients with lung cancer.

Billing Considerations

Documenting the impact of lung function on treatment options.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use C34.0 When
  • Follow the official ICD
  • CM coding guidelines, ensuring accurate documentation of the primary site, staging, and any relevant co
  • morbidities
  • Include details on molecular markers when applicable

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use C34.0 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

31622CPT Code

Bronchoscopy, rigid or flexible

Clinical Scenario

Used for diagnosis and staging of bronchial tumors.

Documentation Requirements

Document indications for bronchoscopy and findings.

Specialty Considerations

Pulmonology specialists should ensure thorough documentation of findings.

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of lung cancers, improving data accuracy and treatment tracking. C34.0 provides a clear distinction for bronchial malignancies, aiding in research and treatment protocols.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of lung cancers, improving data accuracy and treatment tracking. C34.0 provides a clear distinction for bronchial malignancies, aiding in research and treatment protocols.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of lung cancers, improving data accuracy and treatment tracking. C34.0 provides a clear distinction for bronchial malignancies, aiding in research and treatment protocols.

Resources

Clinical References

  • •
    American Cancer Society - Lung Cancer

Coding & Billing References

  • •
    American Cancer Society - Lung Cancer

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the common symptoms of C34.0?

Common symptoms include persistent cough, hemoptysis, chest pain, and wheezing. Patients may also experience weight loss and fatigue.

How is C34.0 staged?

C34.0 is staged using the TNM classification system, which assesses tumor size, lymph node involvement, and presence of metastasis.