ICD-10 Logo
ICDxICD-10 Medical Coding
ICD-10 Logo
ICDxICD-10 Medical Coding
ICD 10 CodesDiagnoses
ICD 10 CodesDiagnoses
ICD-10 Logo
ICDxICD-10 Medical Coding

Comprehensive ICD-10-CM code reference with AI-powered search capabilities.

© 2025 ICD Code Compass. All rights reserved.

Browse

  • All Chapters
  • All Categories
  • Diagnoses

Tools

  • AI Code Search
ICD-10-CM codes are maintained by the CDC and CMS. This tool is for reference purposes only.
v1.0.0
ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesC78.39

C78.39

Billable

Secondary malignant neoplasm of other respiratory organs

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

Code Description

ICD-10 C78.39 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of secondary malignant neoplasm of other respiratory organs.

Key Diagnostic Point:

C78.39 refers to secondary malignant neoplasms that have metastasized to other respiratory organs, excluding the lungs and pleura. This condition typically arises from a primary malignancy located elsewhere in the body, such as the breast, colon, or prostate. The metastatic tumors can affect various structures within the respiratory system, including the trachea, bronchi, and other supporting tissues. Patients may present with respiratory symptoms such as cough, dyspnea, or hemoptysis, which can complicate the clinical picture. Diagnosis often involves imaging studies like CT scans or MRIs, alongside histopathological confirmation through biopsies. Staging of metastatic disease is crucial for determining prognosis and treatment options, which may include systemic therapies, radiation, or palliative care. Given the complexity of managing metastatic disease, a multidisciplinary approach is often required to address the various needs of the patient, particularly in palliative care settings where symptom management is paramount.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: High

High Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Determining the primary site of cancer can be challenging.
  • Need for accurate staging of metastatic disease.
  • Differentiating between primary and secondary neoplasms.
  • Documentation of symptoms and treatment plans is critical.

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of the primary cancer site.
  • Failure to document staging details.
  • Misclassification of primary vs. secondary tumors.
  • Lack of clarity in treatment plans.

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Oncology

Documentation Requirements

Detailed history of the primary malignancy, staging information, and treatment plans.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients with known primary cancers presenting with respiratory symptoms.

Billing Considerations

Ensure clear documentation of the metastatic nature and any treatments administered.

Palliative Care

Documentation Requirements

Comprehensive symptom management plans and patient goals of care.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients with advanced metastatic disease requiring symptom relief.

Billing Considerations

Focus on quality of life and symptom control documentation.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use C78.39 When
  • According to ICD
  • 10 coding guidelines, C78
  • Coders must ensure that the primary site of cancer is documented and that the metastatic nature is established

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use C78.39 When
  • 39 should be used when there is clear documentation of secondary malignancy in respiratory organs, with exclusion of primary respiratory cancers

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

99214CPT Code

Office or other outpatient visit, established patient

Clinical Scenario

Used for follow-up visits for patients with metastatic disease.

Documentation Requirements

Document history, examination, and medical decision-making.

Specialty Considerations

Oncology specialists should ensure comprehensive documentation of cancer history.

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of metastatic diseases, improving the accuracy of data collection and reimbursement processes. C78.39 provides a clear distinction for secondary malignancies in respiratory organs, which aids in treatment planning and resource allocation.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of metastatic diseases, improving the accuracy of data collection and reimbursement processes. C78.39 provides a clear distinction for secondary malignancies in respiratory organs, which aids in treatment planning and resource allocation.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

reimbursement processes. C78.39 provides a clear distinction for secondary malignancies in respiratory organs, which aids in treatment planning 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 is the significance of coding C78.39 accurately?

Accurate coding of C78.39 is crucial for proper treatment planning, resource allocation, and ensuring appropriate reimbursement for services rendered to patients with metastatic disease.