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v1.0.0
ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesC34.92

C34.92

Billable

Malignant neoplasm of unspecified part of left bronchus or lung

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

Code Description

ICD-10 C34.92 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of malignant neoplasm of unspecified part of left bronchus or lung.

Key Diagnostic Point:

C34.92 refers to a malignant neoplasm located in the left bronchus or lung, where the specific site is not further specified. Lung cancer is a leading cause of cancer-related mortality worldwide, often associated with risk factors such as smoking, environmental pollutants, and genetic predispositions. The diagnosis typically involves imaging studies, such as chest X-rays or CT scans, followed by biopsy for histological confirmation. Staging is crucial, as it determines the extent of disease and guides treatment options. The most common staging system used is the TNM classification, which assesses tumor size (T), lymph node involvement (N), and metastasis (M). Molecular markers, such as EGFR mutations and ALK rearrangements, play a significant role in targeted therapies. Treatment algorithms may include surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and immunotherapy, tailored to the individual patient's disease stage and molecular profile.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Variability in staging and treatment protocols based on tumor characteristics.
  • Need for precise documentation of smoking history and risk factors.
  • Potential for multiple sites of involvement leading to confusion in coding.
  • Complexity in distinguishing between primary and secondary lung cancers.

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of smoking history.
  • Failure to document staging details.
  • Misclassification of tumor type or site.
  • Lack of clarity in treatment plans.

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Oncology

Documentation Requirements

Detailed pathology reports, imaging studies, and treatment plans.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Initial diagnosis of lung cancer, staging workup, and treatment planning.

Billing Considerations

Ensure accurate documentation of tumor characteristics and treatment response.

Pulmonology

Documentation Requirements

Pulmonary function tests, imaging results, and smoking history.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Management of lung cancer symptoms and complications.

Billing Considerations

Documenting the patient's respiratory status and any interventions performed.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use C34.92 When
  • Follow ICD
  • CM guidelines for coding neoplasms, ensuring accurate documentation of the site, laterality, and staging
  • Include any relevant history of smoking and risk factors

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use C34.92 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

32551CPT Code

Thoracentesis, needle drainage of pleural effusion

Clinical Scenario

Used in patients with lung cancer presenting with pleural effusion.

Documentation Requirements

Document indication for procedure and findings.

Specialty Considerations

Pulmonology may require additional documentation of lung function.

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, improving data accuracy and facilitating better tracking of treatment outcomes and epidemiological studies.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of lung cancer, improving data accuracy and facilitating better tracking of treatment outcomes and epidemiological studies.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of lung cancer, improving data accuracy and facilitating better tracking of treatment outcomes and epidemiological studies.

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?

Staging determines the extent of cancer spread, which is crucial for treatment planning and prognosis. Accurate staging can influence the choice of therapies and overall management of the disease.