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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesQ38.4

Q38.4

Billable

Congenital malformations of salivary glands and ducts

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

Code Description

ICD-10 Q38.4 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of congenital malformations of salivary glands and ducts.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Congenital malformations of salivary glands and ducts encompass a range of developmental anomalies affecting the formation and function of salivary glands and their associated ducts. These malformations can lead to various clinical manifestations, including difficulties in swallowing, feeding, and oral hygiene. Common conditions include agenesis or hypoplasia of the salivary glands, which may result in dry mouth (xerostomia) and increased risk of dental caries. Additionally, ductal obstructions can lead to sialadenitis or the formation of salivary duct cysts. The diagnosis is often made through clinical examination, imaging studies, and sometimes biopsy. Management may involve surgical intervention, supportive care, and regular monitoring to prevent complications. Understanding the implications of these congenital conditions is crucial for pediatric care, as they can significantly impact a child's growth and development.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Variability in clinical presentation and severity of malformations
  • Need for comprehensive documentation of associated symptoms
  • Potential for co-occurring congenital conditions
  • Variability in treatment approaches and follow-up care

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of clinical findings
  • Failure to capture associated congenital conditions
  • Misclassification of severity or type of malformation
  • Lack of follow-up documentation post-treatment

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Pediatrics

Documentation Requirements

Pediatric documentation should include detailed growth and developmental assessments, feeding difficulties, and any interventions performed.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Common scenarios include infants with feeding difficulties due to salivary gland malformations or older children presenting with recurrent sialadenitis.

Billing Considerations

Coders should be aware of the developmental implications of these conditions and ensure that all relevant clinical details are captured.

Genetics

Documentation Requirements

Genetic documentation should include family history, genetic testing results, and any syndromic associations.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Scenarios may involve genetic counseling for families with a history of congenital malformations or syndromes associated with salivary gland anomalies.

Billing Considerations

Consideration of chromosomal abnormalities that may co-occur with salivary gland malformations is essential for accurate coding.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use Q38.4 When
  • Official coding guidelines for congenital conditions emphasize the need for precise documentation of the malformation type, associated symptoms, and any interventions performed
  • Coders should refer to the ICD
  • CM guidelines for congenital malformations and ensure compliance with payer
  • specific requirements

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use Q38.4 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

42500CPT Code

Sialendoscopy

Clinical Scenario

Used for diagnostic and therapeutic interventions in cases of ductal obstruction.

Documentation Requirements

Documentation should include indications for the procedure and findings.

Specialty Considerations

Pediatric specialists should ensure that the procedure is justified based on the child's clinical presentation.

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of congenital malformations, improving the accuracy of data collection and reimbursement processes. This specificity aids in better tracking of congenital conditions and their management.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of congenital malformations, improving the accuracy of data collection and reimbursement processes. This specificity aids in better tracking of congenital conditions and their management.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

reimbursement processes. This specificity aids in better tracking of congenital conditions and their management.

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 congenital malformations of salivary glands?

Common congenital malformations include agenesis, hypoplasia, and ductal obstructions, which can lead to complications such as dry mouth and recurrent infections.