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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesChapter 2: NeoplasmsD15

D15

Billable

Benign neoplasm of other and unspecified intrathoracic organs

Chapter 2:Neoplasms

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

Code Description

ICD-10 D15 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of benign neoplasm of other and unspecified intrathoracic organs.

Key Diagnostic Point:

D15 refers to benign neoplasms located in the intrathoracic organs, which include structures such as the lungs, pleura, mediastinum, and heart. These neoplasms are non-cancerous growths that can arise from various tissues within these organs. Common types of benign neoplasms in this category include hamartomas, lipomas, and fibromas. While benign, these neoplasms can still cause significant clinical symptoms depending on their size and location, such as obstructive symptoms, respiratory distress, or even cardiac complications. Surveillance is often necessary to monitor for any changes in size or symptoms, as certain benign neoplasms may have the potential for malignant transformation, albeit rarely. Diagnosis typically involves imaging studies such as CT scans or MRIs, and in some cases, biopsy may be required to confirm the benign nature of the neoplasm. Treatment options may vary from observation to surgical intervention based on the clinical scenario.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Variety of benign neoplasm types that can be coded under this category
  • Need for precise documentation to differentiate from malignant neoplasms
  • Potential for overlapping symptoms with other conditions
  • Variability in treatment approaches based on neoplasm type and location

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of the neoplasm's benign nature
  • Failure to specify the exact location of the neoplasm
  • Misclassification of benign neoplasms as malignant
  • Lack of follow-up documentation for surveillance

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Pulmonology

Documentation Requirements

Detailed imaging reports and clinical notes describing symptoms and treatment plans.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients presenting with respiratory symptoms or incidental findings on imaging.

Billing Considerations

Ensure clear differentiation between benign and malignant findings in imaging reports.

Cardiology

Documentation Requirements

Echocardiograms and other cardiac imaging results, along with clinical assessments.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients with cardiac symptoms potentially related to intrathoracic neoplasms.

Billing Considerations

Document any cardiac implications of the neoplasm, including pressure effects on cardiac structures.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use D15 When
  • According to ICD
  • 10 coding guidelines, D15 should be used when a benign neoplasm is confirmed in an intrathoracic organ
  • It is important to document the specific organ involved and any relevant clinical findings

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use D15 When
  • Exclusion criteria include any neoplasms that are confirmed malignant or those that do not fit the definition of benign

Related CPT Codes

32405CPT Code

Thoracotomy, with excision of lung lesion

Clinical Scenario

Used when a benign lung neoplasm is surgically removed.

Documentation Requirements

Operative report detailing the procedure and findings.

Specialty Considerations

Pulmonology and thoracic surgery documentation must align for accurate coding.

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of benign neoplasms, improving the granularity of data collection and enhancing the ability to track treatment outcomes and resource utilization.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of benign neoplasms, improving the granularity of data collection and enhancing the ability to track treatment outcomes and resource utilization.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of benign neoplasms, improving the granularity of data collection and enhancing the ability to track treatment outcomes and resource utilization.

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 difference between benign and malignant neoplasms?

Benign neoplasms are non-cancerous growths that do not invade surrounding tissues or metastasize, while malignant neoplasms are cancerous and can spread to other parts of the body.