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v1.0.0
ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesR85.619

R85.619

Unspecified abnormal cytological findings in specimens from anus

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

Code Description

ICD-10 R85.619 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of unspecified abnormal cytological findings in specimens from anus.

Key Diagnostic Point:

R85.619 is used to classify unspecified abnormal cytological findings in specimens obtained from the anus. This code is typically applied when cytological examinations, such as Pap smears or other cytological tests, reveal abnormal cells that do not fit into a more specific diagnosis. These findings may indicate a range of conditions, including infections, inflammatory processes, or neoplastic changes. Symptoms associated with abnormal findings may include rectal bleeding, discomfort, or changes in bowel habits, although many patients may be asymptomatic. The clinical context often involves screening for anal cancer or monitoring known lesions. The absence of specific findings necessitates the use of this unspecified code, which highlights the importance of thorough documentation to support the diagnosis and guide further management.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Lack of specificity in the findings
  • Potential overlap with other codes
  • Need for comprehensive documentation
  • Variability in clinical presentation

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of clinical findings
  • Failure to specify the type of cytological abnormality
  • Use of this code without supporting evidence
  • Inconsistent coding practices among providers

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Internal Medicine

Documentation Requirements

Detailed patient history, clinical findings, and rationale for cytological testing.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Routine screening for anal abnormalities, follow-up of previous abnormal findings.

Billing Considerations

Ensure that all relevant symptoms and previous medical history are documented to support the use of R85.619.

Emergency Medicine

Documentation Requirements

Acute presentation notes, including symptoms and any immediate interventions.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients presenting with rectal bleeding or pain requiring urgent evaluation.

Billing Considerations

Document any acute findings and the decision-making process for cytological testing.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use R85.619 When
  • Follow the official ICD
  • CM coding guidelines, ensuring that the code is used only when the findings are truly unspecified and that all relevant clinical information is documented

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use R85.619 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related CPT Codes

88142CPT Code

Cytopathology, cervical or vaginal, any specimen

Clinical Scenario

Used when cytological testing is performed on anal specimens.

Documentation Requirements

Document the type of specimen and findings.

Specialty Considerations

Ensure alignment with the specialty performing the procedure.

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding, but the use of unspecified codes like R85.619 can lead to challenges in justifying medical necessity during audits.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding, but the use of unspecified codes like R85.619 can lead to challenges in justifying medical necessity during audits.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding, but the use of unspecified codes like R85.619 can lead to challenges in justifying medical necessity during audits.

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

When should R85.619 be used?

R85.619 should be used when cytological findings from anal specimens are abnormal but do not fit into a more specific diagnosis. Comprehensive documentation is essential to support its use.