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 CodesC72.0

C72.0

Billable

Malignant neoplasm of spinal cord

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

Code Description

ICD-10 C72.0 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of malignant neoplasm of spinal cord.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Malignant neoplasm of the spinal cord refers to cancerous tumors that originate in the spinal cord tissue. These tumors can be primary, arising directly from the spinal cord, or secondary, resulting from metastasis from other sites. Symptoms may include pain, weakness, sensory changes, and loss of bowel or bladder control, depending on the tumor's location and size. Imaging studies such as MRI and CT scans are crucial for diagnosis, allowing visualization of the tumor's size, location, and effect on surrounding structures. Molecular markers, including genetic mutations and protein expressions, can aid in determining the tumor type and guiding treatment options. Neurological function may be significantly impacted, necessitating a multidisciplinary approach for management, including neurosurgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy. Accurate coding is essential for appropriate treatment planning and reimbursement.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Differentiating between primary and secondary tumors
  • Need for precise imaging documentation
  • Variability in treatment protocols based on tumor type
  • Potential for multiple co-existing CNS conditions

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of imaging studies
  • Failure to specify tumor type (primary vs. secondary)
  • Lack of detailed treatment plans
  • Misclassification of tumor grade

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Oncology

Documentation Requirements

Comprehensive pathology reports, imaging studies, and treatment plans.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Diagnosis and treatment planning for spinal cord tumors, management of treatment side effects.

Billing Considerations

Ensure accurate staging and grading of tumors for appropriate coding.

Neurology

Documentation Requirements

Neurological assessments, imaging results, and functional status evaluations.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Evaluation of neurological deficits, management of pain and other symptoms.

Billing Considerations

Document neurological function changes and their correlation with imaging findings.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use C72.0 When
  • Follow the official ICD
  • CM coding guidelines, ensuring accurate documentation of the tumor's location, type, and any associated conditions
  • Include imaging and pathology reports to support coding decisions

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use C72.0 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

63030CPT Code

Laminectomy, excision of spinal cord tumor

Clinical Scenario

Used during surgical intervention for spinal cord tumors.

Documentation Requirements

Surgical notes detailing the procedure and findings.

Specialty Considerations

Ensure alignment with oncology treatment plans.

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of spinal cord malignancies, improving data accuracy and treatment tracking.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of spinal cord malignancies, improving data accuracy and treatment tracking.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of spinal cord malignancies, improving data accuracy and treatment tracking.

Resources

Clinical References

  • •
    American Cancer Society - Spinal Cord Tumors

Coding & Billing References

  • •
    American Cancer Society - Spinal Cord Tumors

Frequently Asked Questions

What imaging studies are necessary for coding C72.0?

MRI and CT scans are essential for visualizing the tumor and assessing its impact on surrounding structures. Documentation of these studies is crucial for accurate coding.