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2025 ICD-10-CM code R85.6

Abnormal cytological findings in specimens from the digestive organs and abdominal cavity.

Use additional codes to specify the location of the abnormality if known (e.g., R85.61 for abnormal cytologic smear of anus). Do not use this code if a definitive diagnosis is available.

Medical necessity is established by the signs, symptoms, or clinical findings that prompted the cytological examination. The documentation should clearly link the test to the patient's condition and the need for further evaluation.

Clinicians ordering and interpreting these tests, like gastroenterologists or surgeons, are responsible for further investigation and correlation with the patient’s clinical picture. This may involve additional diagnostic procedures or specialist consultations.

In simple words: The lab results from tests on your digestive system or abdomen show some unusual cells. More tests might be needed to figure out what's going on.

This code signifies abnormal findings discovered during a cytological examination of specimens taken from the digestive organs or abdominal cavity. Cytology involves examining cells to detect abnormalities suggestive of disease.

Example 1: A patient with abdominal pain undergoes paracentesis (fluid removal from the abdomen). Cytological examination of the fluid reveals atypical cells, prompting further investigation for malignancy., During an endoscopic examination of the colon, a biopsy is taken. Cytology shows abnormal cells, raising suspicion for precancerous changes or early-stage cancer., A patient with difficulty swallowing has an esophageal brushing during an upper endoscopy. Cytology reveals abnormal cells, which could indicate an infection, inflammation, or cancerous growth.

Documentation should include the source of the specimen (e.g., peritoneal fluid, biopsy of colon), the specific cytological findings, and the method of collection. Any correlation with other clinical findings, imaging studies, and the planned follow-up should also be documented.

** This code is a sign or symptom code and should not be used as a principal diagnosis when a definitive diagnosis is available. Remember that R85.6 indicates abnormal findings but doesn't specify the cause.Further investigation is required. For more detailed information and specific use cases of ICD-10 codes, specialized coding resources, such as encoder software or coding manuals, should be consulted.

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