Oncology & Hematology Coding Alert

Endocervix and exocervix lesions will have specific codes.

When a chart documents cervical carcinoma in situ, you'll need to make sure to get the lesion location if you want to use the most specific ICD-10 diagnosis starting in October 2013.

That's because instead of relying on one code as you do for ICD-9 (233.1, Carcinoma in situ, cervix uteri), you'll have multiple ICD-10 options under D06.- (Carcinoma in situ of cervix uteri) as follows:

• D06.0, Carcinoma in situ of endocervix
• D06.1, Carcinoma in situ of exocervix
• D06.7, Carcinoma in situ of other parts of cervix
• D06.9, Carcinoma in situ of cervix, unspecified.

Physician documentation: The key difference between 233.1 and the D06.- category is the specific location of the lesion: endocervix, exocervix, "other parts," or unspecified. For that reason, you'll want the lesion location to be easily accessible in the chart so you can quickly choose the most appropriate code.

Remember: When ICD-10 goes into effect on Oct. 1, 2013, you should apply the code set and official guidelines in effect for the date of service reported. Learn more at www.cms.gov/ICD10/  and www.cdc.gov/nchs/icd/icd10cm.htm#10update.