AHA Coding Clinic® for ICD-9 - 2004 Issue 4; VOLUMES 1 AND 2 NEW/REVISED DIAGNOSIS CODES
Abnormal Pap Smears
Effective October 1, 2004, code titles and inclusion terms have been revised and new codes have been created in subcategory 795.0, Abnormal Papanicolaou smear of cervix and cervical HPV, to reflect the most current version of the Bethesda system. The Bethesda system is used for reporting the result of abnormal Pap tests. Over 90% of laboratories in the United States use the Bethesda system as well as labs in many other countries. It has been endorsed by more than 20 national and international societies. Revise 795 Other and nonspecific abnormal cytological, histological, and immunological and DNA test findings...
Subscribe or sign in to view the full article.
Article Overview
This article explains changes to ICD-9-CM coding for abnormal Pap smear findings and cervical HPV-related results, with reference to the Bethesda reporting system. It is useful for coders, billers, and clinicians who need to understand how the affected subcategory was revised, which terms were added or deleted, and how the update aligns with cervical cytology terminology. The content focuses on code set revisions and new code creation rather than clinical treatment or diagnosis guidance.
Why This Topic Matters
Accurate abstraction of abnormal cervical cytology findings depends on the correct version of the coding classification and terminology. This update affects how related laboratory and pathology results are categorized and helps reduce mismatches between report language and coded data.
What You Will Learn
- How the abnormal Pap smear subcategory was updated
- Which terms were added, revised, or deleted in the affected classification area
- How the Bethesda system is referenced in relation to cervical cytology reporting
- Which cervical cytology and HPV-related terminology changes are included in the update
Who Should Read This
- Medical coders
- Coding auditors
- Clinical documentation specialists
- Pathology and laboratory staff
- Revenue cycle professionals
Codes Discussed
Subscribe or sign in to view the full article.


Quick, Current, Complete - www.findacode.com