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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesC79.02

C79.02

Billable

Secondary malignant neoplasm of left kidney and renal pelvis

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

Code Description

ICD-10 C79.02 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of secondary malignant neoplasm of left kidney and renal pelvis.

Key Diagnostic Point:

C79.02 refers to a secondary malignant neoplasm located in the left kidney and renal pelvis, indicating that the cancer has metastasized from another primary site to this specific location. This condition is characterized by the presence of malignant cells in the kidney and renal pelvis, which can arise from various primary cancers, such as lung, breast, or colorectal cancers. The diagnosis of a secondary malignant neoplasm typically occurs after the identification of the primary cancer, which may not always be known at the time of diagnosis. Staging of the disease is crucial, as it helps determine the extent of metastasis and guides treatment options. Palliative care considerations are essential for managing symptoms and improving the quality of life for patients with advanced metastatic disease. Treatment may include chemotherapy, radiation therapy, or targeted therapies, depending on the primary cancer type and the patient's overall health status. Accurate coding of this condition is vital for appropriate reimbursement and to ensure that patients receive the necessary care.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Determining the primary site of cancer when unknown
  • Staging requirements for metastatic disease
  • Differentiating between primary and secondary neoplasms
  • Documentation of metastatic spread

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of the primary cancer site
  • Failure to document staging details
  • Misclassification of primary vs. secondary neoplasm
  • Lack of palliative care documentation

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Oncology

Documentation Requirements

Comprehensive documentation of the primary cancer, staging, and treatment plans.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients presenting with metastatic disease from known primary cancers, requiring chemotherapy or radiation.

Billing Considerations

Ensure accurate documentation of the metastatic site and any palliative care measures implemented.

Urology

Documentation Requirements

Detailed reports of imaging studies, biopsy results, and surgical interventions.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients with renal masses undergoing evaluation for metastatic disease.

Billing Considerations

Documentation must clearly differentiate between primary renal tumors and secondary neoplasms.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use C79.02 When
  • According to ICD
  • 10 coding guidelines, C79
  • 02 should be used when there is clear documentation of a secondary malignant neoplasm in the left kidney and renal pelvis
  • Coders must ensure that the primary site of cancer is documented, and staging information is included when applicable

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use C79.02 When
  • Exclusion criteria include cases where the neoplasm is primary rather than secondary

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

88305CPT Code

Pathology examination of tissue

Clinical Scenario

Used when a biopsy of the renal mass is performed to confirm metastatic disease.

Documentation Requirements

Pathology report must indicate the presence of malignant cells and their origin.

Specialty Considerations

Oncologists and pathologists must collaborate to ensure accurate diagnosis.

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of secondary malignant neoplasms, improving the accuracy of cancer registries and treatment planning. C79.02 provides a clear designation for metastatic disease in the left kidney, facilitating better tracking of patient outcomes and resource allocation.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of secondary malignant neoplasms, improving the accuracy of cancer registries and treatment planning. C79.02 provides a clear designation for metastatic disease in the left kidney, facilitating better tracking of patient outcomes and resource allocation.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of secondary malignant neoplasms, improving the accuracy of cancer registries and treatment planning. C79.02 provides a clear designation for metastatic disease in the left kidney, facilitating better tracking of patient 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 coding C79.02 accurately?

Accurate coding of C79.02 is crucial for appropriate reimbursement, ensuring that patients receive the necessary care for metastatic disease, and for maintaining accurate cancer registries.