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Oncology & Hematology Coding Alert

READER QUESTION ~ Switch From Neoplasm to 'History of' Code Safely

Published on Tue Nov 14, 2006

Question:When should I start reporting a -history of- code for patients we have treated for primary malignant neoplasms?

New Mexico Subscriber Answer: Under ICD-9 guidelines, -when a primary malignancy has been previously excised or eradicated from its site and there is no further treatment directed to that site and there is no evidence of any existing primary malignancy, a code from category V10, Personal history of malignant neoplasm, should be used to indicate the former site of the malignancy. Any mention of extension, invasion, or metastasis to another site is coded as a secondary malignant neoplasm to that site. The secondary site may be the principal or first-listed with the V10 code used as a secondary code.-

But coding for visits meriting -history of- codes can vary. Check with your payer about how to report follow-ups.

You-ll usually use personal history codes (such as V10.42, Personal history of malignant neoplasm; genital organs; other parts of uterus), and may report signs and symptoms codes (such as 625.x, Pain and other symptoms associated with female genital organs) when appropriate.  
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