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v1.0.0
ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesN63.22

N63.22

Billable

Unspecified lump in the left breast, upper inner quadrant

BILLABLE STATUSYes
IMPLEMENTATION DATEOctober 1, 2015
LAST UPDATED09/18/2025

Code Description

ICD-10 N63.22 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of unspecified lump in the left breast, upper inner quadrant.

Key Diagnostic Point:

N63.22 refers to an unspecified lump located in the upper inner quadrant of the left breast. This code is often used when a patient presents with a palpable mass that has not been definitively diagnosed as benign or malignant. The lump may arise from various benign breast diseases, such as fibrocystic changes, fibroadenomas, or lipomas. It is essential to differentiate these lumps from more serious conditions, including breast cancer. The clinical evaluation typically involves a thorough history and physical examination, followed by imaging studies such as mammography or ultrasound to assess the characteristics of the lump. In some cases, a biopsy may be warranted to obtain a definitive diagnosis. The presence of nipple discharge, breast pain, or changes in breast size may also be relevant clinical factors. Accurate coding is crucial for appropriate management and treatment planning, as well as for ensuring proper reimbursement for services rendered.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Variability in clinical presentation and diagnosis of breast lumps
  • Need for comprehensive documentation to support the diagnosis
  • Potential for overlap with malignant conditions requiring careful differentiation
  • Variations in imaging and biopsy results that may affect coding

Audit Risk Factors

  • Insufficient documentation of clinical findings
  • Lack of imaging or biopsy results to support the diagnosis
  • Inconsistent coding practices among providers
  • Failure to document the patient's history and risk factors

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Oncology

Documentation Requirements

Detailed pathology reports, imaging studies, and treatment plans.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients presenting with breast lumps requiring further evaluation for malignancy.

Billing Considerations

Ensure that all findings are documented to support the diagnosis and treatment plan.

Radiology

Documentation Requirements

Imaging reports detailing the characteristics of the lump.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Performing mammograms or ultrasounds to evaluate breast lumps.

Billing Considerations

Clear documentation of imaging findings is critical for accurate coding.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use N63.22 When
  • According to the official coding guidelines, N63
  • 22 should be used when a lump in the left breast's upper inner quadrant is identified but not specified as benign or malignant
  • Coders should ensure that the documentation supports the use of this code and that any relevant imaging or biopsy results are included

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use N63.22 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

77067CPT Code

Mammography, bilateral

Clinical Scenario

Used when imaging is performed to evaluate a breast lump.

Documentation Requirements

Include imaging reports and findings.

Specialty Considerations

Radiologists should ensure clear documentation of findings to support coding.

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of breast conditions, improving the accuracy of diagnoses and treatment plans. N63.22 provides a clear designation for unspecified lumps, facilitating better tracking and management of breast health.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of breast conditions, improving the accuracy of diagnoses and treatment plans. N63.22 provides a clear designation for unspecified lumps, facilitating better tracking and management of breast health.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of breast conditions, improving the accuracy of diagnoses and treatment plans. N63.22 provides a clear designation for unspecified lumps, facilitating better tracking and management of breast health.

Resources

Clinical References

  • •
    American College of Radiology - Breast Imaging

Coding & Billing References

  • •
    American College of Radiology - Breast Imaging

Frequently Asked Questions

What should I document when coding N63.22?

Document the patient's clinical presentation, imaging findings, and any relevant history or risk factors. Ensure that the documentation supports the diagnosis of an unspecified lump in the left breast.