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v1.0.0
ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesD48.115

D48.115

Billable

Desmoid tumor of upper extremity and shoulder girdle

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

Code Description

ICD-10 D48.115 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of desmoid tumor of upper extremity and shoulder girdle.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Desmoid tumors, also known as aggressive fibromatosis, are benign neoplasms that arise from the connective tissue and are characterized by their infiltrative growth pattern. They can occur in various locations, including the upper extremity and shoulder girdle. These tumors are classified as neoplasms of uncertain behavior, meaning they do not metastasize but can exhibit local aggressiveness, leading to significant morbidity. Clinically, desmoid tumors may present as painless masses, and their growth can be influenced by hormonal factors, particularly in women during pregnancy or those taking hormonal therapies. Surveillance is crucial, as these tumors can recur after surgical excision, and their behavior can change over time. Imaging studies, such as MRI, are often utilized for diagnosis and monitoring. The management of desmoid tumors may involve a multidisciplinary approach, including surgery, observation, and in some cases, pharmacological treatment with nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) or targeted therapies. Given their uncertain behavior, careful documentation and coding are essential to reflect the complexity of the condition accurately.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Uncertain behavior classification requiring careful documentation
  • Potential for local recurrence necessitating ongoing surveillance
  • Variability in treatment approaches complicating coding
  • Need for precise anatomical localization in coding

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of tumor behavior
  • Failure to note the specific location of the tumor
  • Lack of follow-up documentation for surveillance
  • Misclassification of the tumor type

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Oncology

Documentation Requirements

Detailed pathology reports, imaging studies, and treatment plans must be documented.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients presenting with a palpable mass in the upper extremity or shoulder girdle, requiring imaging and biopsy.

Billing Considerations

Ensure that the tumor's behavior and treatment response are clearly documented to support coding.

Orthopedic Surgery

Documentation Requirements

Surgical reports detailing excision margins and any complications.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Surgical intervention for desmoid tumors in the shoulder girdle or upper extremity.

Billing Considerations

Document the rationale for surgical intervention and any postoperative follow-up plans.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use D48.115 When
  • Follow the official ICD
  • CM coding guidelines for neoplasms, ensuring accurate documentation of the tumor's behavior and location
  • Include any relevant history of treatment and follow
  • up care

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use D48.115 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

19120CPT Code

Excision, tumor, soft tissue of the neck or thorax

Clinical Scenario

Used when excising a desmoid tumor from the shoulder girdle.

Documentation Requirements

Operative report detailing the excision and margins.

Specialty Considerations

Orthopedic surgeons should document the extent of the excision and any complications.

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 desmoid tumors, 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 desmoid tumors, improving the accuracy of data collection and reimbursement processes.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

reimbursement processes.

Resources

Clinical References

  • •
    American Cancer Society - Desmoid Tumors

Coding & Billing References

  • •
    American Cancer Society - Desmoid Tumors

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a desmoid tumor?

A desmoid tumor is a benign neoplasm that arises from connective tissue and is characterized by aggressive local growth. It does not metastasize but can cause significant morbidity due to its infiltrative nature.

How are desmoid tumors treated?

Treatment options for desmoid tumors include observation, surgical excision, and pharmacotherapy, depending on the tumor's size, location, and symptoms.

What is the risk of recurrence for desmoid tumors?

Desmoid tumors have a notable risk of recurrence after surgical excision, making regular surveillance and follow-up care essential.