2025 ICD-10-CM code C78.89
(Active) Effective Date: N/A Neoplasms - Secondary malignant neoplasm of other digestive organs 2: Neoplasms (C00-D49) Feed
Secondary malignant neoplasm of other digestive organs.
Medical necessity for the diagnostic workup and treatment of secondary malignant neoplasms of the digestive organs should be established. This may include demonstrating the presence of signs, symptoms, or abnormal findings suggesting metastatic disease, the need for confirmation of the diagnosis, and the plan for managing the cancer.
The provider plays a critical role in diagnosing and managing secondary malignant neoplasms of the digestive organs. This includes taking a thorough history, performing a physical examination, and ordering appropriate laboratory tests (such as CBC, electrolyte panel, CEA, and CA 19-9) and imaging studies (such as GI endoscopy with biopsy, colonoscopy, CT scan of the abdomen, barium enema, and PET scan). Treatment strategies aim to control symptoms, prevent further metastasis, and improve the patient's quality of life. Treatment options may include surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy, depending on the specific case.
- 2: Neoplasms (C00-D49)
- Malignant neoplasms of ill-defined, other secondary and unspecified sites (C76-C80)
In simple words: This code means that cancer has spread to a part of the digestive system other than the stomach, intestines, liver, or other specifically listed digestive organs. It tells us that the digestive system is not where the cancer originally started.
This code represents the presence of a secondary malignant neoplasm (cancer that has spread from a primary site) in a digestive organ not otherwise specified.It indicates that the digestive organ is not the original site of the cancer.
Example 1: A patient with a history of breast cancer presents with abdominal pain and weight loss.A CT scan reveals a mass in the pancreas.Biopsy confirms metastatic breast cancer. C78.89 is used to code the secondary pancreatic malignancy., A patient with a history of melanoma develops jaundice.Imaging studies identify tumors in the gallbladder. The diagnosis is melanoma metastatic to the gallbladder. Code C78.89 is appropriate., A patient previously treated for colon cancer experiences difficulty swallowing.Endoscopy shows a tumor in the esophagus. Pathology confirms metastatic colon cancer to the esophagus.Code C78.89 would be used to indicate the metastatic tumor in the esophagus.
Documentation should include the primary site of the cancer, the specific digestive organ involved, confirmation of malignancy (e.g., biopsy results), and any associated symptoms or complications.Imaging and laboratory reports should be included in the record. Details of the treatment plan should also be documented.
- Payment Status: Active
- Specialties:Oncology, gastroenterology, general surgery, and other specialties involved in the diagnosis and treatment of digestive system cancers.
- Place of Service:Inpatient Hospital, Outpatient Hospital, Physician's Office, and other places where diagnostic and treatment services are provided.