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v1.0.0
ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesChapter 2: NeoplasmsC46

C46

Billable

Kaposi's sarcoma

Chapter 2:Neoplasms

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

Code Description

ICD-10 C46 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of kaposi's sarcoma.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Kaposi's sarcoma (KS) is a type of cancer that manifests as tumors in the skin, lymph nodes, and other organs. It is characterized by the proliferation of spindle-shaped cells and is often associated with human herpesvirus 8 (HHV-8). KS is most commonly seen in individuals with compromised immune systems, particularly those with HIV/AIDS. The lesions can appear as red, purple, or brown spots on the skin and may also affect mucosal surfaces and internal organs. The disease can be classified into several forms, including classic, endemic, epidemic (associated with HIV), and iatrogenic. The epidemic form is particularly aggressive and is prevalent among individuals with HIV/AIDS, where it can signify advanced immunosuppression. Treatment options for Kaposi's sarcoma vary based on the extent of the disease and may include antiretroviral therapy (ART) for HIV-positive patients, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and immunotherapy. Early diagnosis and management are crucial for improving outcomes and quality of life for affected individuals.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Association with HIV/AIDS complicates coding due to the need for additional codes.
  • Variety of clinical presentations requires careful assessment.
  • Potential for multiple treatment modalities necessitates detailed documentation.
  • Differentiation from other skin lesions can be challenging.

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of HIV status.
  • Failure to document the extent and location of lesions.
  • Incorrect coding of treatment modalities.
  • Lack of clarity in distinguishing between different forms of KS.

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Oncology

Documentation Requirements

Detailed pathology reports, treatment plans, and follow-up notes.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Diagnosis of KS in HIV-positive patients, management of lesions, and treatment response evaluation.

Billing Considerations

Ensure accurate staging and documentation of treatment response.

Infectious Disease

Documentation Requirements

Comprehensive patient history, including HIV status and treatment history.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Management of HIV/AIDS patients with KS, initiation of ART, and monitoring of immune status.

Billing Considerations

Document the relationship between HIV status and KS development.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use C46 When
  • According to ICD
  • 10 guidelines, C46 should be used when documenting Kaposi's sarcoma
  • It is essential to include any relevant additional codes for HIV/AIDS (B20) and other related conditions
  • Coders should ensure that the documentation supports the diagnosis and treatment provided

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use C46 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related CPT Codes

96413CPT Code

Chemotherapy administration, intravenous

Clinical Scenario

Used for patients receiving chemotherapy for KS.

Documentation Requirements

Document the specific chemotherapy agent and dosage.

Specialty Considerations

Oncology specialists should ensure accurate coding of chemotherapy regimens.

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of Kaposi's sarcoma, enabling better tracking of the disease's association with HIV and improving the accuracy of treatment data.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of Kaposi's sarcoma, enabling better tracking of the disease's association with HIV and improving the accuracy of treatment data.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of Kaposi's sarcoma, enabling better tracking of the disease's association with HIV and improving the accuracy of treatment data.

Resources

Clinical References

  • •
    Kaposi's Sarcoma Foundation
  • •
    CDC HIV Basics

Coding & Billing References

  • •
    Kaposi's Sarcoma Foundation
  • •
    CDC HIV Basics

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the primary cause of Kaposi's sarcoma?

Kaposi's sarcoma is primarily caused by infection with human herpesvirus 8 (HHV-8) and is most commonly seen in individuals with weakened immune systems, particularly those with HIV/AIDS.

How is Kaposi's sarcoma treated?

Treatment for Kaposi's sarcoma may include antiretroviral therapy for HIV-positive patients, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and immunotherapy, depending on the extent and location of the disease.