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v1.0.0
ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesD21.6

D21.6

Billable

Benign neoplasm of connective and other soft tissue of trunk, unspecified

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

Code Description

ICD-10 D21.6 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of benign neoplasm of connective and other soft tissue of trunk, unspecified.

Key Diagnostic Point:

D21.6 refers to benign neoplasms that arise from connective tissues and other soft tissues located in the trunk region of the body. These neoplasms can include a variety of tumors such as lipomas, fibromas, and other soft tissue tumors that are not classified elsewhere. The trunk encompasses the thorax and abdomen, and these neoplasms can present as palpable masses or be discovered incidentally during imaging studies. Although benign, these tumors can cause discomfort, pain, or functional impairment depending on their size and location. Management typically involves monitoring for changes in size or symptoms, and surgical excision may be indicated if the neoplasm becomes symptomatic or if there is uncertainty regarding its nature. Follow-up care is essential to ensure that the neoplasm remains benign and does not recur. Accurate coding is crucial for appropriate treatment and reimbursement, as well as for tracking the incidence of these tumors in the population.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Variability in presentation and symptoms of benign neoplasms
  • Need for precise documentation of tumor characteristics
  • Differentiation from malignant neoplasms
  • Potential for multiple neoplasms in a single patient

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of tumor characteristics
  • Failure to specify the location of the neoplasm
  • Misclassification as malignant due to lack of clarity
  • Inconsistent follow-up documentation

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Oncology

Documentation Requirements

Detailed pathology reports and imaging studies to confirm benign nature.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients presenting with palpable masses in the trunk area.

Billing Considerations

Ensure clear documentation of tumor size, location, and any symptoms.

Surgery

Documentation Requirements

Operative reports detailing excision and histopathological findings.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Surgical removal of symptomatic benign tumors.

Billing Considerations

Document rationale for surgical intervention and post-operative follow-up.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use D21.6 When
  • Follow the official ICD
  • CM coding guidelines, ensuring that the diagnosis is supported by clinical documentation
  • Include details about the tumor's characteristics and any relevant imaging or pathology reports

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use D21.6 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

19120CPT Code

Excision, tumor, soft tissue of trunk, subcutaneous; excised diameter over 4 cm

Clinical Scenario

Used when a large benign neoplasm is excised from the trunk.

Documentation Requirements

Operative report detailing the excision and pathology results.

Specialty Considerations

Ensure that the excision is documented as necessary for symptomatic relief.

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of benign neoplasms, improving the accuracy of data collection and reimbursement processes. D21.6 provides a clear designation for benign neoplasms of the trunk, which aids in tracking treatment outcomes and resource allocation.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of benign neoplasms, improving the accuracy of data collection and reimbursement processes. D21.6 provides a clear designation for benign neoplasms of the trunk, which aids in tracking treatment outcomes and resource allocation.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

reimbursement processes. D21.6 provides a clear designation for benign neoplasms of the trunk, which aids in tracking 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 is the difference between benign and malignant neoplasms?

Benign neoplasms are non-cancerous growths that do not invade surrounding tissues or metastasize, while malignant neoplasms are cancerous and can spread to other parts of the body.