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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesQ53.20

Q53.20

Billable

Undescended testicle, unspecified, bilateral

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

Code Description

ICD-10 Q53.20 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of undescended testicle, unspecified, bilateral.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Undescended testicle, or cryptorchidism, is a common congenital condition where one or both testicles fail to descend into the scrotum before birth. This condition can lead to complications such as infertility, testicular cancer, and hernias if not addressed. In bilateral cases, both testicles are undescended, which may be associated with other congenital anomalies, including hypospadias or ambiguous genitalia. The exact cause of cryptorchidism is often multifactorial, involving genetic, hormonal, and environmental factors. Diagnosis typically occurs during a physical examination in infancy or early childhood. Treatment options include hormonal therapy or surgical intervention (orchidopexy) to reposition the testicles into the scrotum. Early intervention is crucial to mitigate potential long-term complications. The condition is often documented alongside other congenital malformations of the genital organs, necessitating careful coding to ensure accurate representation of the patient's clinical status.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Differentiating between unilateral and bilateral cases
  • Potential association with other congenital anomalies
  • Need for precise documentation of surgical interventions
  • Variability in clinical presentation and timing of diagnosis

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of the condition's bilateral nature
  • Failure to document associated congenital anomalies
  • Incorrect coding of surgical procedures related to treatment
  • Misinterpretation of clinical findings during examination

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Pediatrics

Documentation Requirements

Detailed physical examination findings, including the presence of both testicles, associated anomalies, and any interventions performed.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Infants presenting with undescended testicles during routine check-ups, referrals for surgical evaluation, and follow-up visits post-orchidopexy.

Billing Considerations

Ensure accurate coding for any associated conditions such as hypospadias or ambiguous genitalia, which may require additional codes.

Genetics

Documentation Requirements

Genetic evaluation reports, family history of congenital conditions, and any chromosomal studies performed.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Cases where undescended testicles are part of a syndrome or genetic condition, requiring comprehensive genetic counseling.

Billing Considerations

Consider the implications of genetic syndromes that may present with cryptorchidism, such as Klinefelter syndrome or Turner syndrome.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use Q53.20 When
  • Follow ICD
  • CM guidelines for congenital conditions, ensuring accurate documentation of the condition's bilateral nature and any associated anomalies
  • Use additional codes as necessary to capture the full clinical picture

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use Q53.20 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

54640CPT Code

Orchidopexy

Clinical Scenario

Performed to correct undescended testicle in a pediatric patient.

Documentation Requirements

Operative report detailing the procedure and findings.

Specialty Considerations

Pediatric urology may require specific documentation standards.

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 the accuracy of data collection and reimbursement processes for conditions like cryptorchidism.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of congenital conditions, improving the accuracy of data collection and reimbursement processes for conditions like cryptorchidism.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

reimbursement processes for conditions like cryptorchidism.

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 bilateral undescended testicles?

Bilateral undescended testicles can have more serious implications for fertility and associated congenital anomalies. Accurate coding is essential for appropriate management and treatment planning.