ICD-10 Logo
ICDxICD-10 Medical Coding
ICD-10 Logo
ICDxICD-10 Medical Coding
ICD 10 CodesDiagnoses
ICD 10 CodesDiagnoses
ICD-10 Logo
ICDxICD-10 Medical Coding

Comprehensive ICD-10-CM code reference with AI-powered search capabilities.

© 2025 ICD Code Compass. All rights reserved.

Browse

  • All Chapters
  • All Categories
  • Diagnoses

Tools

  • AI Code Search
ICD-10-CM codes are maintained by the CDC and CMS. This tool is for reference purposes only.
v1.0.0
ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesC16.5

C16.5

Billable

Malignant neoplasm of lesser curvature of stomach, unspecified

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

Code Description

ICD-10 C16.5 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of malignant neoplasm of lesser curvature of stomach, unspecified.

Key Diagnostic Point:

C16.5 refers to a malignant neoplasm located at the lesser curvature of the stomach, which is a common site for gastric cancer. Gastric cancer is often associated with chronic infection by Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori), a bacterium that can lead to chronic gastritis and is a significant risk factor for the development of gastric adenocarcinoma. The staging of gastric cancer is crucial for determining treatment options and prognosis, typically classified using the TNM system (Tumor, Node, Metastasis). Treatment often involves surgical intervention, such as gastrectomy, which may be total or partial depending on the extent of the disease. Accurate coding for C16.5 requires careful documentation of the tumor's location, size, and any associated symptoms or complications, as well as the patient's history of H. pylori infection and treatment response.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Variability in staging and treatment options
  • Need for precise documentation of tumor location
  • Differentiation from other gastric neoplasms
  • Potential for multiple co-existing conditions

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of tumor staging
  • Failure to document H. pylori status
  • Misclassification of tumor location
  • Lack of follow-up documentation post-surgery

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Oncology

Documentation Requirements

Detailed pathology reports, imaging studies, and treatment plans.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Diagnosis and treatment planning for gastric cancer, staging assessments.

Billing Considerations

Ensure accurate documentation of tumor characteristics and treatment response.

Gastroenterology

Documentation Requirements

Endoscopy reports, biopsy results, and H. pylori testing.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Management of gastric ulcers, chronic gastritis, and screening for gastric cancer.

Billing Considerations

Document any prior treatments for H. pylori and their outcomes.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use C16.5 When
  • Follow the official ICD
  • CM coding guidelines, ensuring accurate documentation of the tumor's location, staging, and any associated conditions
  • Include details on H
  • pylori status and treatment history

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use C16.5 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

43631CPT Code

Laparoscopic total gastrectomy

Clinical Scenario

Used for treatment of C16.5 in patients with localized disease.

Documentation Requirements

Operative reports detailing the procedure and findings.

Specialty Considerations

Ensure alignment with oncology and surgical documentation.

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of gastric cancers, improving the accuracy of data collection and reimbursement processes. C16.5 provides a clear designation for malignancies at the lesser curvature, enhancing clinical understanding and treatment planning.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of gastric cancers, improving the accuracy of data collection and reimbursement processes. C16.5 provides a clear designation for malignancies at the lesser curvature, enhancing clinical understanding and treatment planning.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

reimbursement processes. C16.5 provides a clear designation for malignancies at the lesser curvature, enhancing clinical understanding and treatment planning.

Resources

Clinical References

  • •
    American Cancer Society - Gastric Cancer

Coding & Billing References

  • •
    American Cancer Society - Gastric Cancer

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the significance of H. pylori in gastric cancer?

H. pylori is a major risk factor for gastric cancer, as it can cause chronic inflammation and increase the likelihood of malignant transformation in gastric tissue.

How is gastric cancer staged?

Gastric cancer is staged using the TNM system, which assesses the size and extent of the primary tumor, lymph node involvement, and the presence of metastasis.

What are the treatment options for C16.5?

Treatment options for C16.5 may include surgical resection (gastrectomy), chemotherapy, and targeted therapies, depending on the stage and overall health of the patient.