2025 ICD-10-CM code C10
(Active) Effective Date: N/A Neoplasms - Malignant neoplasms of lip, oral cavity and pharynx 2 Neoplasms Feed
Malignant neoplasm of oropharynx.
Medical necessity for oropharyngeal cancer treatment is established by the confirmed diagnosis of malignancy, typically through biopsy. The specific treatment approach, whether surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, or a combination, is determined by factors such as the stage and location of the cancer, the patient's overall health, and their individual preferences. Documentation should clearly link the chosen treatment plan to the patient's specific condition and support the medical rationale for the chosen intervention.
Clinicians diagnose oropharyngeal cancer based on patient history, physical examination of the mouth, throat, and neck, and biopsies of any suspicious masses or lymph nodes. Further diagnostic testing, such as endoscopy, X-rays, ultrasound, CT scans, MRI, and PET scans, helps determine the extent of the cancer's spread (staging). Treatment usually involves surgery, radiation therapy, and/or chemotherapy, and sometimes targeted chemotherapy, depending on the cancer's stage and characteristics.
In simple words: Oropharyngeal cancer is a type of cancer that starts in the back of your throat, including the base of your tongue, your tonsils, and the walls of your throat. It's important to see a doctor if you have any symptoms like a lump in your neck, trouble swallowing, or a sore throat that doesn't go away, as these could be signs of oropharyngeal cancer.
Malignant neoplasm of the oropharynx (the portion of the throat, or pharynx, that is open to the mouth) refers to a cancerous mass that can spread to other tissues.
Example 1: A patient presents with a persistent sore throat, difficulty swallowing, and a lump in their neck. After a thorough examination and biopsy, they are diagnosed with a malignant neoplasm of the oropharynx., A patient with a history of heavy smoking and alcohol use develops a muffled voice and ear pain. Imaging reveals a tumor in the oropharynx, confirming a diagnosis of oropharyngeal cancer., During a routine dental check-up, a suspicious lesion is discovered on a patient's tonsil. A biopsy confirms the presence of a malignant neoplasm, leading to a diagnosis of oropharyngeal cancer.
Documentation for oropharyngeal cancer should include details of the patient's medical history, including risk factors such as smoking and alcohol use, as well as a comprehensive account of their symptoms. Physical examination findings, including the location and size of any masses or lesions, should be recorded. Results of biopsies, imaging studies (e.g., CT, MRI, PET), and other diagnostic tests are crucial for accurate staging and treatment planning. Any procedures performed, such as endoscopies or surgeries, should also be documented.
- Specialties:Otolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, Oncology, Radiation Oncology
- Place of Service:Inpatient Hospital, On Campus-Outpatient Hospital, Office, Outpatient Hospital