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v1.0.0
ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesC79.32

C79.32

Billable

Secondary malignant neoplasm of cerebral meninges

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

Code Description

ICD-10 C79.32 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of secondary malignant neoplasm of cerebral meninges.

Key Diagnostic Point:

C79.32 refers to a secondary malignant neoplasm of the cerebral meninges, indicating that cancer has metastasized to the protective membranes covering the brain. This condition often arises from primary tumors located elsewhere in the body, such as lung, breast, or melanoma. The presence of metastatic disease in the meninges can lead to various neurological symptoms, including headaches, seizures, and cognitive changes. Diagnosis typically involves imaging studies like MRI or CT scans, which can reveal lesions on the meninges. Treatment options may include radiation therapy, chemotherapy, or palliative care, depending on the extent of the disease and the patient's overall health. Accurate coding is crucial for proper treatment planning and reimbursement, as well as for tracking the incidence of metastatic disease in clinical settings.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Determining the primary site of cancer can be challenging.
  • Documentation must clearly indicate metastatic disease.
  • Differentiating between primary and secondary neoplasms requires careful review.
  • Staging information may be incomplete or unavailable.

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of the primary cancer site.
  • Failure to specify the extent of metastatic involvement.
  • Misclassification of primary versus secondary tumors.
  • Lack of staging information in medical records.

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Oncology

Documentation Requirements

Detailed history of the primary cancer, treatment history, and current status of metastatic disease.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients with known primary cancers presenting with neurological symptoms.

Billing Considerations

Ensure that the primary site is documented to support the use of C79.32.

Neurology

Documentation Requirements

Neurological assessments, imaging results, and treatment plans.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients presenting with headaches, seizures, or cognitive decline.

Billing Considerations

Document neurological findings thoroughly to support the diagnosis.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use C79.32 When
  • According to ICD
  • 10 guidelines, C79
  • 32 should be used when there is clear documentation of a secondary malignant neoplasm of the cerebral meninges
  • It is essential to ensure that the primary site of cancer is documented, as this impacts treatment and prognosis

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use C79.32 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

77263CPT Code

Radiation treatment planning

Clinical Scenario

Used when planning radiation therapy for meningeal metastases.

Documentation Requirements

Detailed treatment plan and imaging results.

Specialty Considerations

Oncology specialists should ensure accurate coding for treatment planning.

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of metastatic diseases, improving the accuracy of data collection and reimbursement processes. C79.32 provides a clear distinction between primary and secondary neoplasms, which is essential for treatment planning.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of metastatic diseases, improving the accuracy of data collection and reimbursement processes. C79.32 provides a clear distinction between primary and secondary neoplasms, which is essential for treatment planning.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

reimbursement processes. C79.32 provides a clear distinction between primary and secondary neoplasms, which is essential for treatment planning.

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 C79.32 accurately?

Accurate coding of C79.32 is crucial for appropriate treatment planning, reimbursement, and tracking the incidence of metastatic disease. It ensures that patients receive the necessary care and that healthcare providers are compensated for their services.