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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesC74.00

C74.00

Billable

Malignant neoplasm of cortex of unspecified adrenal gland

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

Code Description

ICD-10 C74.00 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of malignant neoplasm of cortex of unspecified adrenal gland.

Key Diagnostic Point:

C74.00 refers to a malignant neoplasm located in the cortex of the adrenal gland, which is responsible for producing hormones such as cortisol, aldosterone, and androgens. These tumors can disrupt normal hormone production, leading to various metabolic and endocrine disorders. Symptoms may include hypertension, weight gain, and abnormal glucose metabolism, depending on the hormones affected. Diagnosis typically involves imaging studies, such as CT or MRI, and may require biopsy for histological confirmation. Treatment options often include surgical resection, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy, depending on the tumor's size, stage, and hormone secretion status. The unspecified nature of the adrenal gland in this code indicates that the specific side (left or right) is not documented, which can complicate treatment planning and prognosis. Accurate coding is essential for appropriate management and reimbursement.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Unspecified location of the adrenal gland complicates treatment planning.
  • Potential for multiple hormone-secreting tumors requiring detailed documentation.
  • Need for differentiation from benign adrenal tumors.
  • Variability in clinical presentation based on hormone secretion.

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of tumor characteristics.
  • Failure to specify the side of the adrenal gland.
  • Lack of clarity on hormone secretion status.
  • Insufficient details on treatment plans.

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Endocrinology

Documentation Requirements

Detailed hormone level assessments and imaging results.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients presenting with symptoms of Cushing's syndrome or adrenal insufficiency.

Billing Considerations

Endocrinologists must document hormone profiles and any metabolic disturbances.

Oncology

Documentation Requirements

Pathology reports and staging information.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients undergoing treatment for adrenal tumors, including chemotherapy and radiation.

Billing Considerations

Oncologists should document tumor size, grade, and response to treatment.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use C74.00 When
  • According to ICD
  • 10 coding guidelines, C74
  • 00 should be used when the specific side of the adrenal gland is not documented
  • Coders must ensure that the diagnosis is supported by clinical documentation, including imaging and pathology reports

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use C74.00 When
  • Exclusion criteria include benign adrenal tumors and other specified malignancies

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

CPT 60540CPT Code

Adrenalectomy

Clinical Scenario

Used for surgical removal of the adrenal tumor.

Documentation Requirements

Operative report detailing the procedure and findings.

Specialty Considerations

Endocrinologists and oncologists should ensure clear documentation of indications for surgery.

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for greater specificity in coding adrenal tumors, improving the accuracy of diagnoses and treatment plans. C74.00 provides a framework for capturing cases where the adrenal gland's side is unspecified, but it also highlights the need for thorough documentation to avoid ambiguity.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for greater specificity in coding adrenal tumors, improving the accuracy of diagnoses and treatment plans. C74.00 provides a framework for capturing cases where the adrenal gland's side is unspecified, but it also highlights the need for thorough documentation to avoid ambiguity.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for greater specificity in coding adrenal tumors, improving the accuracy of diagnoses and treatment plans. C74.00 provides a framework for capturing cases where the adrenal gland's side is unspecified, but it also highlights the need for thorough documentation to avoid ambiguity.

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 specifying the side of the adrenal gland?

Specifying the side of the adrenal gland is crucial for treatment planning and prognosis, as it can influence surgical approaches and the management of hormone-related symptoms.