Oncology & Hematology Coding Alert
Report Diagnosis Confirmed in Pathology Report
Question: We need to report a diagnosis of gastric cancer. The biopsy report states invasive squamous cell carcinoma, and the CT revealed thickened wall of the gastroesophageal junction and cardia region of the stomach consistent with patient’s history of gastric cancer. Please explain whether it would be appropriate to list ICD-9-CM code 151.0 (Malignant neoplasm of cardia) or 150.2 (Malignant neoplasm of abdominal esophagus).
New Hampshire Subscriber
Answer: The most appropriate code seems to be 150.2 (Malignant neoplasm of abdominal esophagus). Since you are stating that the patient has an established gastric cancer, you can report V10.04 (Personal history of malignant neoplasm of stomach) for personal history of gastric cancer.
The most common cancer in the esophagus is an adenocarcinoma. The description provided by you confirms the carcinoma to be squamous. From what you describe here, the CT shows a thickening of the gastroesophageal junction from which you are confirming the lower esophagus pathology. However, it is better if you share complete documentation in support of the diagnosis.
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