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v1.0.0
ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesC32.0

C32.0

Billable

Malignant neoplasm of glottis

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

Code Description

ICD-10 C32.0 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of malignant neoplasm of glottis.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Malignant neoplasm of the glottis refers to cancerous growths that occur in the vocal cords, which are located in the larynx. This type of cancer is often associated with risk factors such as tobacco use, excessive alcohol consumption, and exposure to certain chemicals. Symptoms may include hoarseness, difficulty swallowing, and persistent cough. Diagnosis typically involves laryngoscopy and biopsy to confirm malignancy. Treatment options vary based on the stage of cancer and may include surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy. Voice preservation is a critical consideration in treatment planning, especially for patients who rely on their voice for professional or personal reasons. Staging of laryngeal cancer is crucial for determining the extent of disease and guiding treatment decisions. The TNM classification system is commonly used, where 'T' indicates the size and extent of the primary tumor, 'N' indicates regional lymph node involvement, and 'M' indicates the presence of metastasis. Early detection and appropriate management are essential for improving outcomes in patients with glottic cancer.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Variability in staging and treatment options
  • Need for precise documentation of tumor size and location
  • Differentiation from other laryngeal cancers
  • Potential for voice preservation techniques

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of tumor characteristics
  • Failure to document staging accurately
  • Misclassification of the site of the neoplasm
  • Lack of clarity on treatment intent (curative vs. palliative)

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Otolaryngology

Documentation Requirements

Detailed descriptions of tumor size, location, and staging; treatment plans; and follow-up care.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients presenting with hoarseness, difficulty breathing, or swallowing; post-operative follow-ups after laryngeal surgery.

Billing Considerations

Documentation must clearly indicate the intent of treatment and any voice preservation techniques employed.

Oncology

Documentation Requirements

Comprehensive treatment plans, including chemotherapy and radiation details, and response to treatment.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Management of advanced laryngeal cancer, including palliative care considerations.

Billing Considerations

Coordination with other specialties for comprehensive care and accurate coding of multi-disciplinary treatment approaches.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use C32.0 When
  • Follow the official ICD
  • CM guidelines for neoplasms, ensuring accurate documentation of the site, histology, and staging
  • Include any relevant treatment details and co
  • existing conditions that may affect management

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use C32.0 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

31575CPT Code

Laryngoscopy, flexible, diagnostic

Clinical Scenario

Used for initial evaluation of suspected glottic cancer.

Documentation Requirements

Document findings from the laryngoscopy and any biopsies performed.

Specialty Considerations

Otolaryngologists must ensure thorough documentation of the procedure and findings.

31540CPT Code

Laryngectomy, partial

Clinical Scenario

Performed for treatment of glottic cancer with voice preservation.

Documentation Requirements

Detailed operative report including extent of resection and voice preservation techniques.

Specialty Considerations

Oncologists should coordinate with surgeons for accurate coding of the procedure.

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of laryngeal cancers, improving the ability to capture the nuances of treatment and staging. This specificity aids in better tracking of outcomes and resource allocation.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of laryngeal cancers, improving the ability to capture the nuances of treatment and staging. This specificity aids in better tracking of outcomes and resource allocation.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of laryngeal cancers, improving the ability to capture the nuances of treatment and staging. This specificity aids in better tracking of outcomes and resource allocation.

Resources

Clinical References

  • •
    American Academy of Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery
  • •
    National Cancer Institute - Laryngeal Cancer

Coding & Billing References

  • •
    American Academy of Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery
  • •
    National Cancer Institute - Laryngeal Cancer

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the common symptoms of malignant neoplasm of the glottis?

Common symptoms include hoarseness, difficulty swallowing, throat pain, and persistent cough. Patients may also experience changes in voice quality.

How is glottic cancer staged?

Glottic cancer is staged using the TNM classification system, which assesses tumor size (T), lymph node involvement (N), and metastasis (M).

What treatment options are available for glottic cancer?

Treatment options may include surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy, with a focus on voice preservation when possible.

What documentation is required for accurate coding of glottic cancer?

Documentation should include tumor size, location, staging, treatment intent, and any co-existing conditions that may affect management.