E/M Coding Alert - 2000 Issue 9
Reader Question: Coding a Lesion as Benign Or Malignant
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Article Overview
This reader Q&A explains the general coding concern that arises when a skin lesion is excised before pathology confirms whether it is benign or malignant. It is aimed at coders working with pathology-dependent diagnosis assignment and discusses the importance of documentation, specimen sizing, and the ICD-9 neoplasm table for locating skin lesions by anatomic site.
Why This Topic Matters
Skin lesion cases can be miscoded if diagnosis selection is made before pathology results are available. This article matters because it highlights the need to align diagnosis coding with final pathology and the documented lesion site.
What You Will Learn
- Why pathology reports matter when coding skin lesions
- How documentation and specimen size can differ from lesion size
- Where skin lesions are referenced in the ICD-9 neoplasm indexing structure
- Why anatomic site is relevant to locating skin neoplasm entries
Who Should Read This
- Medical coders
- Coding auditors
- Physician practice staff
- Hospital coding staff
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