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v1.0.0
ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesChapter 2: NeoplasmsC48

C48

Billable

Malignant neoplasm of retroperitoneum and peritoneum

Chapter 2:Neoplasms

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

Code Description

ICD-10 C48 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of malignant neoplasm of retroperitoneum and peritoneum.

Key Diagnostic Point:

C48 refers to malignant neoplasms located in the retroperitoneum and peritoneum, which are areas in the abdominal cavity. These tumors can arise from various tissues, including soft tissues, and are often classified as sarcomas. Soft tissue sarcomas in these regions are rare but can be aggressive, leading to significant morbidity. The retroperitoneum houses vital structures such as the kidneys, aorta, and inferior vena cava, making surgical intervention complex. The peritoneum, a serous membrane, can also be involved in metastatic disease from other primary tumors. Grading of these tumors is crucial, as it helps determine prognosis and treatment strategies. High-grade tumors tend to have a worse prognosis and may require more aggressive treatment. Multidisciplinary management is essential, involving surgical oncologists, medical oncologists, and radiation oncologists to optimize patient outcomes. Treatment may include surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy, tailored to the tumor's characteristics and the patient's overall health.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: High

High Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Variety of soft tissue sarcomas that can be classified under this code
  • Need for precise documentation of tumor location and characteristics
  • Grading and staging complexities that affect treatment decisions
  • Multidisciplinary approach requiring coordination among specialties

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of tumor type and grade
  • Failure to capture all relevant surgical interventions
  • Misclassification of tumor location
  • Lack of clarity on multidisciplinary treatment plans

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Surgical Oncology

Documentation Requirements

Detailed operative reports, including tumor size, location, and margins.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Resection of retroperitoneal sarcomas, management of peritoneal carcinomatosis.

Billing Considerations

Accurate coding of surgical procedures and any complications encountered during surgery.

Medical Oncology

Documentation Requirements

Treatment plans, chemotherapy regimens, and response assessments.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Adjuvant chemotherapy for high-grade sarcomas, management of metastatic disease.

Billing Considerations

Documentation of tumor markers and response to treatment is crucial for accurate coding.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use C48 When
  • According to ICD
  • 10 guidelines, C48 should be used for malignant neoplasms specifically located in the retroperitoneum and peritoneum
  • Coders must ensure accurate documentation of the tumor's location, type, and grade

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use C48 When
  • Exclusions include benign tumors and neoplasms of other origins

Related CPT Codes

38500CPT Code

Biopsy of lymph nodes

Clinical Scenario

Used when lymph nodes are sampled for staging of sarcomas.

Documentation Requirements

Pathology report confirming malignancy and lymph node involvement.

Specialty Considerations

Surgical oncology must document the rationale for biopsy.

15850CPT Code

Laparoscopic peritoneal washings

Clinical Scenario

Performed to assess for malignant cells in peritoneal carcinomatosis.

Documentation Requirements

Clear indication of the procedure and findings.

Specialty Considerations

Documentation must include the reason for the washings and results.

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of malignant neoplasms, including those of the retroperitoneum and peritoneum. This specificity aids in better tracking of treatment outcomes and resource allocation.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of malignant neoplasms, including those of the retroperitoneum and peritoneum. This specificity aids in better tracking of treatment outcomes and resource allocation.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of malignant neoplasms, including those of the retroperitoneum and peritoneum. This specificity aids in better tracking of treatment outcomes and resource allocation.

Resources

Clinical References

  • •
    ICD-10-CM Official Guidelines for Coding and Reporting

Coding & Billing References

  • •
    ICD-10-CM Official Guidelines for Coding and Reporting

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the significance of grading in soft tissue sarcomas?

Grading helps determine the aggressiveness of the tumor and guides treatment decisions. High-grade tumors are more likely to metastasize and may require more aggressive treatment.

How does multidisciplinary management impact coding for C48?

Multidisciplinary management often involves multiple specialties, which must be documented accurately to ensure proper coding and billing for all services rendered.