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v1.0.0
ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesC53.9

C53.9

Billable

Malignant neoplasm of cervix uteri, unspecified

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

Code Description

ICD-10 C53.9 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of malignant neoplasm of cervix uteri, unspecified.

Key Diagnostic Point:

C53.9 refers to a malignant neoplasm of the cervix uteri that is unspecified, meaning that the specific type of cervical cancer has not been identified. Cervical cancer primarily arises from the squamous cells lining the cervix, often linked to persistent infection with high-risk human papillomavirus (HPV). Symptoms may include abnormal vaginal bleeding, pelvic pain, or unusual discharge. Diagnosis typically involves a Pap smear followed by a biopsy to confirm malignancy. Staging of cervical cancer is crucial for determining treatment options and prognosis, classified from Stage 0 (carcinoma in situ) to Stage IV (advanced disease). The CA-125 test, while more commonly associated with ovarian cancer, may be utilized in some cases to monitor treatment response or recurrence. Treatment approaches can include surgery (such as a hysterectomy), radiation therapy, and chemotherapy, depending on the stage and overall health of the patient. Accurate coding is essential for proper treatment reimbursement and tracking of cancer statistics.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Variability in staging and treatment options based on cancer progression
  • Need for precise documentation of symptoms and diagnostic tests
  • Differentiation from other gynecologic malignancies
  • Potential for multiple concurrent diagnoses

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of staging and treatment plans
  • Failure to specify the type of cervical cancer
  • Lack of supporting clinical evidence for diagnosis
  • Inconsistent coding practices across providers

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Gynecologic Oncology

Documentation Requirements

Detailed pathology reports, imaging studies, and treatment plans must be documented.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Initial diagnosis of cervical cancer, staging evaluations, and treatment planning.

Billing Considerations

Ensure that all relevant diagnostic tests and staging information are included in the medical record.

Radiation Oncology

Documentation Requirements

Radiation treatment plans and dosimetry calculations must be documented.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients receiving radiation therapy for cervical cancer.

Billing Considerations

Document the specific radiation techniques used and the rationale for treatment.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use C53.9 When
  • Follow the official ICD
  • CM coding guidelines, ensuring that the diagnosis is supported by clinical documentation
  • 9 should be used when the specific type of cervical cancer is not documented
  • Include any relevant staging information when available

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use C53.9 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

58150CPT Code

Total abdominal hysterectomy

Clinical Scenario

Used for surgical treatment of cervical cancer.

Documentation Requirements

Operative report detailing the procedure and indication.

Specialty Considerations

Ensure that the diagnosis of cervical cancer is clearly documented in the surgical notes.

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of cervical cancer, improving data accuracy and treatment tracking. C53.9 serves as a catch-all for unspecified cases, emphasizing the need for thorough documentation.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of cervical cancer, improving data accuracy and treatment tracking. C53.9 serves as a catch-all for unspecified cases, emphasizing the need for thorough documentation.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

reimbursement.

Resources

Clinical References

  • •
    American Cancer Society - Cervical Cancer

Coding & Billing References

  • •
    American Cancer Society - Cervical Cancer

Frequently Asked Questions

What does C53.9 represent?

C53.9 represents an unspecified malignant neoplasm of the cervix uteri, indicating that the specific type of cervical cancer has not been documented.

When should I use C53.9?

Use C53.9 when the diagnosis of cervical cancer is confirmed but the specific type or stage is not documented in the medical record.