2025 ICD-10-CM code C34.82
Malignant neoplasm of overlapping sites of left bronchus and lung.
Medical necessity is established by the presence of a malignant neoplasm affecting the left bronchus and lung, confirmed by appropriate diagnostic tests. The specific treatment plan will determine further medical necessity considerations for procedures and therapies.
A patient with this condition may experience a recurrent cough (dry or blood-tinged), wheezing, shortness of breath, difficulty swallowing, chest pain, weakness, weight loss, and recurring infections such as bronchitis or pneumonia. Diagnosis is based on history, symptoms, physical examination, lab tests (CBC, blood chemistry, sputum exam, respiratory function tests, biopsy), and imaging (X-ray, CT, MRI, bronchoscopy, mediastinoscopy, thoracoscopy, PET scan). Treatment depends on the stage and location, and may include surgery, chemotherapy, radiotherapy, radiofrequency ablation, and immunotherapy.
In simple words: Cancer involving both the left lung and the tube leading to it (bronchus).
Malignant neoplasms of two or more adjacent parts of the left bronchus and lung occur due to abnormal growth of bronchial mucosa or lung cells that can spread to nearby tissues, blood vessels, or lymphatic vessels. Lung cancers are the most common cancers in the United States and are commonly found in chronic smokers, those exposed to air pollutants and certain chemicals in the workplace, or those with a genetic predisposition.
Example 1: A patient presents with a persistent cough and shortness of breath. After imaging and biopsy, a malignant neoplasm is found at the junction of the left bronchus and lung, extending into both structures. C34.82 is used for coding., A chronic smoker undergoes a routine chest X-ray that reveals a suspicious mass. Further investigation with CT and biopsy confirms a malignant neoplasm overlapping the left bronchus and lung. C34.82 is the appropriate code., A patient with a history of exposure to asbestos experiences worsening cough and chest pain. A PET scan reveals a malignant tumor involving the left bronchus and lung. C34.82 is used to code the diagnosis.
Documentation should clearly indicate the involvement of both the left bronchus and lung, specifying that the tumor overlaps these adjacent structures. The diagnostic methods used, such as imaging and biopsy results, should also be documented.
- Specialties:Oncology, Pulmonology, Thoracic Surgery
- Place of Service:Inpatient Hospital, Outpatient Hospital, Physician's Office