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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesC79.72

C79.72

Billable

Secondary malignant neoplasm of left adrenal gland

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

Code Description

ICD-10 C79.72 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of secondary malignant neoplasm of left adrenal gland.

Key Diagnostic Point:

C79.72 refers to a secondary malignant neoplasm located in the left adrenal gland, indicating that the cancer has metastasized from a primary site elsewhere in the body. This condition is characterized by the presence of malignant cells in the adrenal gland, which can disrupt normal adrenal function and lead to various systemic symptoms. The adrenal glands are responsible for producing hormones that regulate metabolism, immune response, and stress reactions. Metastatic disease to the adrenal glands is often seen in patients with advanced malignancies, particularly those originating from the lungs, breast, or kidneys. The diagnosis typically involves imaging studies such as CT or MRI scans, and may be confirmed through biopsy. Staging of the disease is crucial for determining prognosis and treatment options, as well as for palliative care considerations, which focus on managing symptoms and improving quality of life for patients with advanced cancer. Accurate coding of this condition is essential for appropriate treatment planning and reimbursement.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Determining the primary site of malignancy can be challenging.
  • Need for precise documentation of metastatic disease.
  • Differentiating between primary and secondary neoplasms.
  • Staging requirements may vary based on the primary cancer type.

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of the primary cancer site.
  • Failure to document the metastatic nature of the neoplasm.
  • Misclassification of the adrenal neoplasm as primary rather than secondary.
  • Lack of staging information in the medical record.

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Oncology

Documentation Requirements

Detailed documentation of the primary cancer site, staging, and treatment plans.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients with known malignancies presenting with adrenal masses.

Billing Considerations

Ensure clear differentiation between primary and secondary tumors.

Endocrinology

Documentation Requirements

Hormonal assessment and adrenal function tests.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients with adrenal insufficiency or hormonal imbalances due to metastatic disease.

Billing Considerations

Document any hormonal therapies or interventions related to adrenal function.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use C79.72 When
  • According to ICD
  • 10 coding guidelines, C79
  • 72 should be used when there is clear documentation of a secondary malignant neoplasm in the left adrenal gland
  • Coders must ensure that the primary malignancy is documented and coded separately

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use C79.72 When
  • Exclusion criteria include cases where the adrenal neoplasm is primary or benign

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

38500CPT Code

Biopsy of lymph nodes or other tissues

Clinical Scenario

Used when a biopsy is performed to confirm metastatic disease in the adrenal gland.

Documentation Requirements

Document the indication for biopsy and results.

Specialty Considerations

Oncology specialists should ensure that the biopsy results are linked to the primary cancer diagnosis.

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, including secondary neoplasms like C79.72. This specificity improves data accuracy for treatment planning and research, as well as reimbursement processes.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of metastatic diseases, including secondary neoplasms like C79.72. This specificity improves data accuracy for treatment planning and research, as well as reimbursement processes.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

reimbursement processes.

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 C79.72 accurately?

Accurate coding of C79.72 is crucial for appropriate treatment planning, reimbursement, and ensuring that patients receive the necessary palliative care. It also aids in tracking cancer epidemiology and outcomes.