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v1.0.0
ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesQ34.1

Q34.1

Billable

Congenital cyst of mediastinum

BILLABLE STATUSYes
IMPLEMENTATION DATEOctober 1, 2015
LAST UPDATED09/11/2025

Code Description

ICD-10 Q34.1 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of congenital cyst of mediastinum.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Congenital cyst of the mediastinum is a rare condition characterized by the presence of fluid-filled sacs that develop in the mediastinal space, which is located between the lungs. These cysts can arise from various embryological origins, including bronchogenic, thymic, or pericardial tissue. Clinically, they may present with respiratory distress, cough, or asymptomatic findings on imaging studies. The diagnosis is typically confirmed through imaging modalities such as chest X-ray or CT scan, which reveal the cystic structure. Treatment often involves surgical intervention, especially if the cyst is causing significant symptoms or complications. Congenital cysts can be associated with other congenital malformations of the respiratory system, such as tracheoesophageal fistula or lung hypoplasia, necessitating a comprehensive evaluation of the patient’s respiratory status and overall health. Early diagnosis and management are crucial to prevent complications such as infection or respiratory failure.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Variability in presentation and symptoms among patients
  • Potential association with other congenital anomalies
  • Need for imaging studies for accurate diagnosis
  • Surgical intervention may be required, complicating coding

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of associated congenital anomalies
  • Failure to specify the type of cyst
  • Misclassification of the cyst type or location
  • Lack of clarity on the necessity of surgical intervention

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Pediatrics

Documentation Requirements

Detailed clinical notes on respiratory symptoms, imaging results, and any surgical interventions performed.

Common Clinical Scenarios

A newborn presenting with respiratory distress and diagnosed with a mediastinal cyst via imaging.

Billing Considerations

Pediatric patients may have different presentations and management strategies compared to adults, necessitating careful documentation.

Genetics

Documentation Requirements

Genetic testing results, family history of congenital conditions, and any syndromic associations.

Common Clinical Scenarios

A child with a congenital cyst and a family history of genetic disorders requiring genetic counseling.

Billing Considerations

Consideration of syndromic associations with congenital cysts, such as chromosomal abnormalities.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use Q34.1 When
  • Follow official ICD
  • CM guidelines for coding congenital malformations, ensuring accurate documentation of the condition, associated anomalies, and any surgical procedures performed

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use Q34.1 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

39501CPT Code

Thoracotomy for excision of mediastinal cyst

Clinical Scenario

Used when surgical intervention is required for symptomatic mediastinal cysts.

Documentation Requirements

Operative report detailing the procedure and findings.

Specialty Considerations

Pediatric surgical documentation must include age-specific considerations.

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of congenital conditions, improving the accuracy of data collection and reimbursement processes.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of congenital conditions, improving the accuracy of data collection and 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 are the common symptoms of a congenital cyst of the mediastinum?

Common symptoms include respiratory distress, cough, and in some cases, asymptomatic findings on imaging. Symptoms may vary based on the size and location of the cyst.