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v1.0.0
ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesC79.89

C79.89

Billable

Secondary malignant neoplasm of other specified sites

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

Code Description

ICD-10 C79.89 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of secondary malignant neoplasm of other specified sites.

Key Diagnostic Point:

C79.89 is used to classify secondary malignant neoplasms that occur in sites not specifically identified in other codes. This code is particularly relevant for metastatic disease, where cancer has spread from its original (primary) site to other parts of the body. In many cases, the primary site may be unknown, complicating diagnosis and treatment. The metastatic tumors can arise from various cancers, including breast, lung, prostate, and colorectal cancers, among others. The clinical presentation may vary widely depending on the sites involved, and symptoms can include pain, organ dysfunction, and systemic effects such as weight loss and fatigue. Staging of metastatic disease is crucial for treatment planning and prognosis, often utilizing the TNM (Tumor, Node, Metastasis) system. Palliative care considerations are also essential, as many patients with secondary malignancies may require symptom management and supportive care to improve quality of life, especially in advanced stages of disease.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Determining the primary site when it is unknown
  • Differentiating between primary and secondary malignancies
  • Staging complexities due to multiple metastatic sites
  • Variability in documentation across specialties

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of the primary site
  • Failure to specify the metastatic site
  • Incorrect staging information
  • Lack of clarity in treatment plans

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Oncology

Documentation Requirements

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

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients with known primary cancers presenting with new metastatic lesions.

Billing Considerations

Accurate documentation of the metastatic sites and any changes in treatment regimens.

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 patient-centered care approaches.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use C79.89 When
  • According to ICD
  • CM guidelines, C79
  • 89 should be used when the metastatic site is specified but does not fall under other specific codes
  • Coders must ensure that the primary malignancy is documented and that the metastatic sites are clearly identified

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use C79.89 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

99214CPT Code

Established patient office visit, level 4

Clinical Scenario

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

Documentation Requirements

Documentation of the patient's history, examination, and medical decision-making.

Specialty Considerations

Oncology practices may require additional documentation related to treatment plans.

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of metastatic disease, improving the accuracy of patient records and treatment plans. C79.89 provides a means to capture secondary malignancies that do not fit into other specific categories, enhancing data collection and analysis.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of metastatic disease, improving the accuracy of patient records and treatment plans. C79.89 provides a means to capture secondary malignancies that do not fit into other specific categories, enhancing data collection and analysis.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of metastatic disease, improving the accuracy of patient records and treatment plans. C79.89 provides a means to capture secondary malignancies that do not fit into other specific categories, enhancing data collection and analysis.

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

When should I use C79.89?

C79.89 should be used when documenting secondary malignant neoplasms that do not fall under more specific codes, particularly when the metastatic site is known but not specified in other codes.