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v1.0.0
ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesC34.2

C34.2

Billable

Malignant neoplasm of middle lobe, bronchus or lung

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

Code Description

ICD-10 C34.2 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of malignant neoplasm of middle lobe, bronchus or lung.

Key Diagnostic Point:

C34.2 refers to malignant neoplasms located specifically in the middle lobe of the lung, which is a critical area for respiratory function. Lung cancer is one of the leading causes of cancer-related deaths worldwide, with a significant correlation to smoking history. The middle lobe, being a part of the right lung, can be affected by various types of lung cancer, including non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) and small cell lung cancer (SCLC). Staging of lung cancer is crucial for determining treatment options and prognosis, typically classified using the TNM system (Tumor, Node, Metastasis). Molecular markers such as EGFR mutations, ALK rearrangements, and PD-L1 expression are increasingly important in guiding targeted therapies and immunotherapy. Treatment algorithms may include surgical resection, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and targeted therapies, depending on the stage and molecular characteristics of the tumor. Accurate coding for C34.2 is essential for appropriate treatment planning and reimbursement.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Variability in staging and treatment options based on tumor characteristics
  • Need for precise documentation of smoking history and exposure
  • Differentiation between types of lung cancer (NSCLC vs. SCLC)
  • Inclusion of molecular markers in treatment planning

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of smoking history
  • Failure to document staging details
  • Omission of molecular marker testing results
  • Incorrect coding of tumor size or metastasis

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Oncology

Documentation Requirements

Detailed pathology reports, staging information, and treatment plans.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Initial diagnosis of lung cancer, treatment planning, and follow-up care.

Billing Considerations

Ensure all molecular testing results are documented to support targeted therapy coding.

Pulmonology

Documentation Requirements

Pulmonary function tests, imaging studies, and smoking history documentation.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Management of lung cancer symptoms, pre-operative assessments, and post-operative care.

Billing Considerations

Accurate documentation of lung function and any co-morbid respiratory conditions.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use C34.2 When
  • According to the official coding guidelines, C34
  • 2 should be used when the documentation specifies a malignant neoplasm located in the middle lobe of the lung
  • Coders must ensure that the diagnosis is confirmed by pathology and that staging is documented appropriately

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use C34.2 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

32405CPT Code

Video-assisted thoracoscopic lobectomy

Clinical Scenario

Used for surgical resection of the middle lobe in lung cancer patients.

Documentation Requirements

Operative reports detailing the procedure and findings.

Specialty Considerations

Oncology specialists should ensure accurate coding of the surgical approach.

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of lung cancer types and locations, improving the accuracy of data collection and reimbursement processes.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of lung cancer types and locations, improving the accuracy of data collection and reimbursement processes.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

reimbursement processes.

Resources

Clinical References

  • •
    American Cancer Society - Lung Cancer

Coding & Billing References

  • •
    American Cancer Society - Lung Cancer

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the significance of staging in lung cancer coding?

Staging is crucial as it determines the treatment options available and the prognosis for the patient. Accurate staging must be documented to support the use of specific codes.