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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesC79.40

C79.40

Billable

Secondary malignant neoplasm of unspecified part of nervous system

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

Code Description

ICD-10 C79.40 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of secondary malignant neoplasm of unspecified part of nervous system.

Key Diagnostic Point:

C79.40 refers to secondary malignant neoplasms that have metastasized to an unspecified part of the nervous system. This condition arises when cancer cells from a primary tumor spread to the nervous system, which can include the brain, spinal cord, or peripheral nerves. The primary tumor may originate from various sites, such as the lungs, breast, or prostate, and the specific origin may remain unknown at the time of diagnosis. The clinical presentation can vary widely, depending on the location and extent of the metastasis, and may include neurological deficits, seizures, or altered mental status. Staging of metastatic disease is crucial for treatment planning and prognosis, often utilizing imaging studies such as MRI or CT scans to assess the extent of spread. Palliative care considerations are paramount, as many patients with secondary malignant neoplasms may have advanced disease and require symptom management, supportive care, and discussions regarding end-of-life preferences. Accurate coding is essential for appropriate reimbursement and to reflect the complexity of care provided.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: High

High Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Determining the primary site of cancer can be challenging.
  • Variability in clinical presentation complicates diagnosis.
  • Requires comprehensive documentation of metastatic disease.
  • Staging and treatment plans may differ based on the primary site.

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of the primary cancer site.
  • Failure to document the extent of metastasis.
  • Lack of clarity in treatment plans and palliative care discussions.
  • Misclassification of the neoplasm type.

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Oncology

Documentation Requirements

Detailed history of the primary cancer, imaging results, and treatment plans.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients presenting with neurological symptoms and known history of cancer.

Billing Considerations

Ensure accurate staging and documentation of metastatic sites.

Neurology

Documentation Requirements

Neurological assessments, imaging findings, and symptom management strategies.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients with new-onset seizures or cognitive changes with a history of malignancy.

Billing Considerations

Document neurological deficits and their impact on patient care.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use C79.40 When
  • According to ICD
  • 10 guidelines, C79
  • 40 should be used when the specific site of the secondary malignant neoplasm in the nervous system is not documented
  • It is essential to ensure that the primary malignancy is documented and that the metastatic nature of the disease is clear

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use C79.40 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

70450CPT Code

CT scan of the head or brain

Clinical Scenario

Used to evaluate suspected metastasis in patients with a known primary malignancy.

Documentation Requirements

Document indications for the scan and findings related to metastasis.

Specialty Considerations

Oncology and neurology should coordinate on imaging findings.

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 data collection and reimbursement processes. C79.40 provides a distinct code for unspecified nervous system involvement, which was less clearly defined in ICD-9.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of secondary malignant neoplasms, improving the accuracy of data collection and reimbursement processes. C79.40 provides a distinct code for unspecified nervous system involvement, which was less clearly defined in ICD-9.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

reimbursement processes. C79.40 provides a distinct code for unspecified nervous system involvement, which was less clearly defined in ICD-9.

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 C79.40?

C79.40 is significant as it captures the complexity of secondary malignant neoplasms in the nervous system, ensuring appropriate treatment planning and reimbursement for care provided.