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v1.0.0
ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesQ53.10

Q53.10

Billable

Unspecified undescended testicle, unilateral

BILLABLE STATUSYes
IMPLEMENTATION DATEOctober 1, 2015
LAST UPDATED09/11/2025

Code Description

ICD-10 Q53.10 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of unspecified undescended testicle, unilateral.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Unilateral undescended testicle, or cryptorchidism, is a congenital condition where one testicle fails to descend into the scrotum. This condition is commonly diagnosed in newborns and can lead to complications such as infertility, testicular cancer, and hernias if not treated. The exact cause of cryptorchidism is often multifactorial, involving genetic, hormonal, and environmental factors. In many cases, the undescended testicle may spontaneously descend within the first year of life, but surgical intervention (orchidopexy) may be necessary if it does not. Accurate coding is essential for tracking the prevalence of this condition and ensuring appropriate management. The unspecified nature of this code indicates that the specific location of the undescended testicle is not documented, which can complicate treatment planning and follow-up care.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Variability in documentation of testicle location
  • Differentiation from bilateral undescended testicles
  • Potential for associated conditions (e.g., hypospadias)
  • Need for precise timing of surgical intervention

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of clinical findings
  • Failure to specify laterality of the undescended testicle
  • Misclassification of the condition as bilateral
  • Lack of follow-up documentation post-surgery

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Pediatrics

Documentation Requirements

Detailed notes on physical examination findings, including the presence and location of the undescended testicle, and any associated anomalies.

Common Clinical Scenarios

A newborn presenting with an undescended testicle during routine examination, or a child referred for evaluation of delayed puberty.

Billing Considerations

Consideration of associated congenital anomalies such as hypospadias or hernias, which may require additional coding.

Genetics

Documentation Requirements

Genetic evaluation for syndromic associations, including family history and any chromosomal abnormalities.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Assessment of a child with cryptorchidism and other congenital anomalies, or a family history of testicular dysgenesis.

Billing Considerations

Awareness of genetic syndromes that may present with undescended testicles, such as Klinefelter syndrome.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use Q53.10 When
  • Follow the official ICD
  • CM guidelines for coding congenital malformations, ensuring accurate documentation of the condition's specifics, including laterality and associated anomalies

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use Q53.10 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

54640CPT Code

Orchidopexy

Clinical Scenario

Surgical correction of undescended testicle in a pediatric patient.

Documentation Requirements

Operative report detailing the procedure and findings.

Specialty Considerations

Pediatric urology considerations for surgical intervention.

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of congenital conditions, improving data accuracy and facilitating better patient management.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of congenital conditions, improving data accuracy and facilitating better patient management.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of congenital conditions, improving data accuracy and facilitating better patient management.

Resources

Clinical References

  • •
    American Academy of Pediatrics - Cryptorchidism

Coding & Billing References

  • •
    American Academy of Pediatrics - Cryptorchidism

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the significance of coding Q53.10?

Coding Q53.10 is crucial for tracking the incidence of undescended testicles, which can have significant implications for a child's future health, including fertility and cancer risk. Accurate coding ensures appropriate management and follow-up.