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v1.0.0
ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesC32.2

C32.2

Billable

Malignant neoplasm of subglottis

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

Code Description

ICD-10 C32.2 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of malignant neoplasm of subglottis.

Key Diagnostic Point:

C32.2 refers to malignant neoplasms located in the subglottis, which is the area of the larynx situated below the vocal cords and above the trachea. This type of cancer is relatively rare compared to other laryngeal cancers, but it can significantly impact voice function and airway management. Symptoms may include hoarseness, difficulty breathing, and a persistent cough. Diagnosis typically involves laryngoscopy and biopsy to confirm malignancy. Treatment options may include surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy, depending on the stage of the cancer. Voice preservation is a critical consideration in treatment planning, especially for patients who rely on their voice for professional or personal reasons. Staging of subglottic cancer follows the TNM classification system, assessing tumor size (T), lymph node involvement (N), and distant metastasis (M) to determine the appropriate therapeutic approach and prognosis.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Variability in staging and treatment options based on tumor size and location
  • Need for precise documentation of symptoms and diagnostic procedures
  • Potential for co-existing conditions affecting treatment and coding
  • Complexity in determining voice preservation strategies

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of staging and treatment plans
  • Failure to document voice preservation efforts
  • Misclassification of tumor size or extent
  • Lack of clarity in the pathology report

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Otolaryngology

Documentation Requirements

Detailed laryngoscopy findings, biopsy results, and treatment plans.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients presenting with hoarseness, difficulty breathing, or abnormal findings on imaging.

Billing Considerations

Ensure thorough documentation of voice function assessments and treatment outcomes.

Oncology

Documentation Requirements

Comprehensive staging information, treatment protocols, and follow-up care details.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients undergoing chemotherapy or radiation therapy for subglottic cancer.

Billing Considerations

Document any multidisciplinary approaches to treatment and patient responses.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use C32.2 When
  • Follow official ICD
  • CM guidelines for coding neoplasms, including the need for specificity in tumor location and staging
  • Ensure compliance with documentation standards for malignancies

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use C32.2 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 laryngeal cancer.

Documentation Requirements

Document findings from the laryngoscopy and any biopsies performed.

Specialty Considerations

Otolaryngologists should ensure thorough documentation of the laryngeal anatomy observed.

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 data accuracy and treatment tracking. C32.2 provides a clear distinction for subglottic malignancies, which aids in research and treatment outcomes.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of laryngeal cancers, improving data accuracy and treatment tracking. C32.2 provides a clear distinction for subglottic malignancies, which aids in research and treatment outcomes.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of laryngeal cancers, improving data accuracy and treatment tracking. C32.2 provides a clear distinction for subglottic malignancies, which aids in research and treatment outcomes.

Resources

Clinical References

  • •
    American Academy of Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery

Coding & Billing References

  • •
    American Academy of Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the common symptoms of subglottic cancer?

Common symptoms include hoarseness, difficulty breathing, a persistent cough, and sometimes pain in the throat or neck.

How is subglottic cancer diagnosed?

Diagnosis typically involves a laryngoscopy to visualize the larynx and a biopsy to confirm the presence of malignant cells.

What treatment options are available for C32.2?

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