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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesD44.7

D44.7

Billable

Neoplasm of uncertain behavior of aortic body and other paraganglia

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

Code Description

ICD-10 D44.7 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of neoplasm of uncertain behavior of aortic body and other paraganglia.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Neoplasms of uncertain behavior of the aortic body and other paraganglia are tumors that arise from the neuroendocrine cells located in these areas. These tumors can exhibit a range of biological behaviors, from benign to malignant, but their exact nature often remains indeterminate at the time of diagnosis. The aortic body, located near the aorta, and other paraganglia are involved in the regulation of blood pressure and heart rate through the release of catecholamines. Patients may present with symptoms related to catecholamine excess, such as hypertension, palpitations, and anxiety. Diagnosis typically involves imaging studies, such as CT or MRI, and may require biopsy for histological examination. Due to their uncertain behavior, these neoplasms necessitate careful surveillance and follow-up to monitor for potential progression to malignancy. The management may include surgical intervention, especially if the tumor is symptomatic or shows signs of growth. Regular follow-up is crucial to assess for any changes in the tumor's behavior.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Uncertainty in behavior classification
  • Need for comprehensive documentation of symptoms
  • Potential for multiple imaging studies
  • Variability in treatment approaches

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of tumor behavior
  • Failure to document follow-up plans
  • Misclassification of tumor type
  • Lack of imaging study results in the record

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Oncology

Documentation Requirements

Detailed pathology reports, imaging results, and treatment plans.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Diagnosis of a paraganglioma, management of symptoms related to catecholamine secretion.

Billing Considerations

Ensure clear documentation of tumor behavior and any changes over time.

Endocrinology

Documentation Requirements

Hormonal assay results, patient history of symptoms, and follow-up notes.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Evaluation of hypertension and other symptoms related to neuroendocrine tumors.

Billing Considerations

Document any endocrine evaluations and their results to support diagnosis.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use D44.7 When
  • Follow ICD
  • CM guidelines for neoplasms, ensuring accurate documentation of tumor behavior
  • Include any relevant imaging and pathology reports to support the diagnosis

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use D44.7 When
  • Exclude codes for benign tumors or those with a known malignant behavior

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

38500CPT Code

Biopsy of lymph nodes

Clinical Scenario

Used when a biopsy is performed to assess the tumor.

Documentation Requirements

Pathology report and imaging results.

Specialty Considerations

Oncology specialists should ensure comprehensive documentation of findings.

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of neoplasms, including those of uncertain behavior, improving the accuracy of data collection and reimbursement processes.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of neoplasms, including those of uncertain behavior, improving the accuracy of data collection and reimbursement processes.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

reimbursement processes.

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 D44.7?

Coding D44.7 indicates a neoplasm of uncertain behavior, which requires careful monitoring and follow-up due to the potential for malignant transformation. Accurate coding is essential for appropriate management and reimbursement.