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v1.0.0
ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesC34.32

C34.32

Billable

Malignant neoplasm of lower lobe, left bronchus or lung

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

Code Description

ICD-10 C34.32 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of malignant neoplasm of lower lobe, left bronchus or lung.

Key Diagnostic Point:

C34.32 refers to a malignant neoplasm located in the lower lobe of the left lung or bronchus. This diagnosis is commonly associated with lung cancer, which is characterized by uncontrolled cell growth in lung tissues. Risk factors include a history of smoking, exposure to secondhand smoke, and environmental pollutants. The staging of lung cancer is crucial for determining treatment options and prognosis, typically classified using the TNM system (Tumor, Node, Metastasis). Molecular markers such as EGFR mutations, ALK rearrangements, and PD-L1 expression are increasingly important for targeted therapies. Treatment algorithms may include surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and immunotherapy, depending on the stage and specific characteristics of the tumor. Accurate coding is essential for appropriate treatment planning and reimbursement.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: High

High Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Need for precise staging information
  • Variability in treatment protocols based on molecular markers
  • Differentiation from other lung neoplasms
  • Documentation of smoking history and risk factors

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of staging
  • Failure to document smoking history
  • Misclassification of tumor type
  • Lack of molecular marker testing results

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Oncology

Documentation Requirements

Detailed pathology reports, imaging studies, and treatment plans.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Initial diagnosis of lung cancer, staging evaluations, and treatment follow-ups.

Billing Considerations

Ensure all molecular testing results are documented to support targeted therapy coding.

Pulmonology

Documentation Requirements

Pulmonary function tests, imaging, and smoking history.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Evaluation of lung function in patients with lung cancer and management of respiratory symptoms.

Billing Considerations

Document any comorbid respiratory conditions that may affect treatment.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use C34.32 When
  • Follow the official ICD
  • CM coding guidelines, ensuring accurate documentation of the primary site, laterality, and any associated conditions
  • Include staging information where applicable

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use C34.32 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

32551CPT Code

Video-assisted thoracoscopic lobectomy

Clinical Scenario

Used for surgical resection of the lower lobe in lung cancer patients.

Documentation Requirements

Operative report detailing the procedure and findings.

Specialty Considerations

Oncology and thoracic surgery documentation must align for accurate coding.

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of lung cancer, improving the accuracy of data collection and reimbursement processes. C34.32 provides granularity that was not available in ICD-9.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of lung cancer, improving the accuracy of data collection and reimbursement processes. C34.32 provides granularity that was not available in ICD-9.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

reimbursement processes. C34.32 provides granularity that was not available in ICD-9.

Resources

Clinical References

  • •
    American Cancer Society - Lung Cancer

Coding & Billing References

  • •
    American Cancer Society - Lung Cancer

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the significance of staging in lung cancer coding?

Staging is crucial as it determines treatment options and prognosis. Accurate coding of the stage is necessary for appropriate reimbursement and treatment planning.