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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesC72.4

C72.4

Billable

Malignant neoplasm of acoustic nerve

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

Code Description

ICD-10 C72.4 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of malignant neoplasm of acoustic nerve.

Key Diagnostic Point:

C72.4 refers to a malignant neoplasm of the acoustic nerve, which is part of the cranial nerves responsible for hearing and balance. This neoplasm can arise from Schwann cells, leading to vestibular schwannomas (also known as acoustic neuromas) that may exhibit malignant characteristics. Symptoms often include hearing loss, tinnitus, and balance disturbances. Imaging studies, particularly MRI, are crucial for diagnosis, as they provide detailed visualization of the tumor's size, location, and relationship to surrounding structures. Molecular markers, such as mutations in the NF2 gene, may be investigated to understand the tumor's biology and guide treatment decisions. Neurological function can be significantly impacted, necessitating a multidisciplinary approach for management, including surgical intervention, radiation therapy, and rehabilitation services.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Differentiating between benign and malignant tumors
  • Need for precise imaging documentation
  • Potential for co-morbid neurological conditions
  • Variability in treatment approaches

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of imaging results
  • Failure to specify the malignant nature of the neoplasm
  • Lack of detailed treatment plans
  • Misclassification of tumor type

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Otolaryngology

Documentation Requirements

Complete audiological assessments, imaging reports, and surgical notes.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients presenting with unilateral hearing loss, tinnitus, or balance issues.

Billing Considerations

Ensure clear documentation of symptoms and imaging findings to support the diagnosis.

Neurosurgery

Documentation Requirements

Detailed operative reports, pathology results, and post-operative follow-up notes.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Surgical intervention for tumor resection or management of complications.

Billing Considerations

Document the extent of resection and any neurological deficits post-surgery.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use C72.4 When
  • Follow official coding guidelines for malignancies, ensuring accurate documentation of the tumor's location, type, and behavior
  • Include any relevant imaging and pathology reports to substantiate the diagnosis

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use C72.4 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

61548CPT Code

Craniotomy for excision of acoustic neuroma

Clinical Scenario

Used when a patient undergoes surgical resection of a malignant neoplasm of the acoustic nerve.

Documentation Requirements

Operative report detailing the procedure, findings, and any complications.

Specialty Considerations

Neurosurgeons must document the extent of tumor resection and any neurological outcomes.

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, improving the accuracy of data collection and reimbursement processes. C72.4 provides a clear designation for malignant tumors of the acoustic nerve, facilitating 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, improving the accuracy of data collection and reimbursement processes. C72.4 provides a clear designation for malignant tumors of the acoustic nerve, facilitating better tracking of treatment outcomes and resource allocation.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

reimbursement processes. C72.4 provides a clear designation for malignant tumors of the acoustic nerve, facilitating better tracking of treatment outcomes and resource allocation.

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 imaging is required for diagnosing C72.4?

MRI is the preferred imaging modality for diagnosing malignant neoplasms of the acoustic nerve, as it provides detailed images of the tumor and its relationship to surrounding structures.