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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesC72.20

C72.20

Billable

Malignant neoplasm of unspecified olfactory nerve

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

Code Description

ICD-10 C72.20 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of malignant neoplasm of unspecified olfactory nerve.

Key Diagnostic Point:

C72.20 refers to a malignant neoplasm affecting the olfactory nerve, which is responsible for the sense of smell. This neoplasm can arise from various cellular origins, including neuroectodermal tissue, and may present with symptoms such as anosmia (loss of smell), headaches, or neurological deficits. Imaging studies, particularly MRI, are crucial for diagnosis, as they help visualize the tumor's size, location, and potential invasion into surrounding structures. The olfactory nerve is part of the central nervous system (CNS), and malignancies in this area can lead to significant morbidity due to their proximity to critical brain structures. Molecular markers, such as IDH1 mutations or 1p/19q co-deletion status, may assist in determining the tumor's type and prognosis. Neurological function can be severely impacted, necessitating a multidisciplinary approach for management, including neurosurgery, oncology, and rehabilitation services.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Unspecified nature of the olfactory nerve involvement
  • Potential overlap with other CNS tumors
  • Need for precise imaging interpretation
  • Variability in clinical presentation

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of imaging findings
  • Failure to specify laterality when applicable
  • Lack of molecular marker documentation
  • Insufficient detail on neurological deficits

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Neurology

Documentation Requirements

Detailed neurological examination findings, imaging results, and treatment plans.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients presenting with anosmia, headaches, or seizures.

Billing Considerations

Ensure comprehensive documentation of neurological assessments and imaging interpretations.

Oncology

Documentation Requirements

Pathology reports, molecular marker analysis, and treatment protocols.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Management of patients undergoing chemotherapy or radiation therapy for olfactory nerve tumors.

Billing Considerations

Document treatment response and any side effects experienced by the patient.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use C72.20 When
  • Follow the official ICD
  • CM coding guidelines, ensuring accurate documentation of the diagnosis, imaging results, and treatment plans
  • Include any relevant clinical findings that support the diagnosis of a malignant neoplasm

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use C72.20 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

61510CPT Code

Craniotomy, with excision of tumor

Clinical Scenario

Used when a patient undergoes surgery for a malignant olfactory nerve tumor.

Documentation Requirements

Operative report detailing the procedure and findings.

Specialty Considerations

Neurosurgical documentation must include tumor characteristics and neurological assessments.

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, including those affecting the olfactory nerve. This specificity aids in better tracking of treatment outcomes and resource allocation.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of CNS malignancies, including those affecting the olfactory nerve. This specificity aids in better tracking of treatment outcomes and resource allocation.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of CNS malignancies, including those affecting the olfactory nerve. This specificity aids in better tracking of treatment outcomes and resource allocation.

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 is required for diagnosing C72.20?

MRI is the preferred imaging modality for diagnosing malignant neoplasms of the olfactory nerve, as it provides detailed images of the brain and surrounding structures.