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v1.0.0
ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesC70.0

C70.0

Billable

Malignant neoplasm of cerebral meninges

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

Code Description

ICD-10 C70.0 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of malignant neoplasm of cerebral meninges.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Malignant neoplasm of the cerebral meninges refers to a cancerous growth that originates in the protective membranes covering the brain and spinal cord, known as the meninges. This type of tumor can arise from various cell types within the meninges, including meningeal cells, and may exhibit aggressive behavior, leading to significant neurological deficits. Symptoms often include headaches, seizures, cognitive changes, and focal neurological deficits, depending on the tumor's location. Diagnosis typically involves imaging studies such as MRI or CT scans, which can reveal the presence of a mass effect, edema, or enhancement patterns indicative of malignancy. Molecular markers, such as IDH mutations and 1p/19q co-deletion status, may assist in determining tumor type and prognosis. Treatment often involves a multidisciplinary approach, including surgical resection, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy, tailored to the tumor's characteristics and the patient's overall health. Monitoring neurological function is crucial, as these tumors can significantly impact cognitive and motor abilities.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: High

High Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Variability in tumor presentation and symptoms
  • Need for precise imaging interpretation
  • Complexity of treatment regimens
  • Potential for co-existing neurological conditions

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of imaging findings
  • Failure to specify tumor location and characteristics
  • Misclassification of tumor type
  • Lack of clarity in treatment plans

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Neurology

Documentation Requirements

Detailed neurological assessments, imaging results, and treatment plans must be documented.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients presenting with new-onset seizures, headaches, or cognitive decline.

Billing Considerations

Neurologists must ensure that all neurological deficits are documented to support the diagnosis.

Oncology

Documentation Requirements

Comprehensive treatment plans, including surgical notes and pathology reports.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients undergoing chemotherapy or radiation therapy for meningeal tumors.

Billing Considerations

Oncologists should document molecular markers and treatment responses to support coding.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use C70.0 When
  • Follow the official ICD
  • CM coding guidelines, ensuring accurate documentation of the tumor's location, type, and any associated symptoms
  • Include imaging findings and treatment plans to support the diagnosis

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use C70.0 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

61510CPT Code

Craniotomy for excision of brain tumor

Clinical Scenario

Used when a malignant meningeal tumor is surgically removed.

Documentation Requirements

Operative report detailing the procedure and findings.

Specialty Considerations

Neurosurgeons must document the extent of resection and any complications.

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of CNS malignancies, improving the accuracy of data collection and reimbursement processes. C70.0 provides a clear distinction between malignant and benign conditions, which is crucial for treatment planning and research.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of CNS malignancies, improving the accuracy of data collection and reimbursement processes. C70.0 provides a clear distinction between malignant and benign conditions, which is crucial for treatment planning and research.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

reimbursement processes. C70.0 provides a clear distinction between malignant and benign conditions, which is crucial for treatment planning and research.

Resources

Clinical References

  • •
    ICD-10-CM Official Guidelines for Coding and Reporting

Coding & Billing References

  • •
    ICD-10-CM Official Guidelines for Coding and Reporting

Frequently Asked Questions

What imaging studies are necessary for diagnosing C70.0?

MRI is the preferred imaging modality for diagnosing malignant neoplasms of the cerebral meninges, as it provides detailed images of soft tissue and can reveal mass effects, edema, and enhancement patterns.