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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesC31.2

C31.2

Billable

Malignant neoplasm of frontal sinus

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

Code Description

ICD-10 C31.2 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of malignant neoplasm of frontal sinus.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Malignant neoplasm of the frontal sinus is a rare but serious condition characterized by the uncontrolled growth of cancerous cells within the frontal sinus cavity. This type of malignancy can arise from various cell types, including squamous cells, adenocarcinoma, and other histological variants. Symptoms may include nasal obstruction, facial pain, swelling, and sometimes neurological symptoms if the tumor invades surrounding structures. Diagnosis typically involves imaging studies such as CT or MRI scans, which help delineate the extent of the tumor and its relationship to adjacent anatomical structures. Treatment often requires a multidisciplinary approach, including surgical resection, radiation therapy, and possibly chemotherapy, depending on the tumor's stage and histological type. Accurate coding for this condition is crucial for appropriate reimbursement and tracking of cancer-related healthcare services.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Variability in histological types of tumors
  • Need for precise imaging documentation
  • Potential for overlapping symptoms with benign conditions
  • Multidisciplinary treatment approaches

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of imaging results
  • Failure to specify tumor type or grade
  • Lack of clarity in treatment plans
  • Misclassification of tumor stage

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Otolaryngology

Documentation Requirements

Detailed clinical notes including imaging results, biopsy reports, and treatment plans.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients presenting with nasal obstruction, facial pain, or swelling requiring imaging and potential surgical intervention.

Billing Considerations

Ensure accurate documentation of tumor type and staging to support coding.

Oncology

Documentation Requirements

Comprehensive treatment plans, including chemotherapy and radiation therapy details.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Management of patients with diagnosed frontal sinus malignancies undergoing multimodal treatment.

Billing Considerations

Documentation must reflect the multidisciplinary approach to treatment.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use C31.2 When
  • Follow official ICD
  • CM coding guidelines, ensuring accurate documentation of the malignancy's location, type, and any associated complications
  • Include relevant imaging and treatment details to support the diagnosis

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use C31.2 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

31276CPT Code

Nasal/sinus endoscopy with biopsy

Clinical Scenario

Used when a biopsy is performed to confirm malignancy in the frontal sinus.

Documentation Requirements

Document the indication for the procedure, findings, and any complications.

Specialty Considerations

Otolaryngologists must ensure thorough documentation of the endoscopic findings.

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of frontal sinus malignancies, improving the accuracy of data collection and reimbursement processes. This specificity aids in better tracking of treatment outcomes and resource allocation.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of frontal sinus malignancies, improving the accuracy of data collection and reimbursement processes. This specificity aids in better tracking of treatment outcomes and resource allocation.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

reimbursement processes. This specificity aids in better tracking of treatment outcomes and resource allocation.

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

What imaging studies are necessary for coding C31.2?

CT or MRI scans are essential for diagnosing and staging frontal sinus malignancies. Documentation of these imaging studies must be included in the patient's medical record to support the coding.