2025 ICD-10-CM code D44
Neoplasm of uncertain behavior of endocrine glands
Medical necessity for the evaluation and management of a neoplasm of uncertain behavior is based on the potential for malignancy. Close monitoring, further diagnostic testing, and potential treatment are necessary to prevent progression to a more serious condition.
Signs and symptoms of a neoplasm of uncertain behavior of an endocrine gland vary with the location and function of the gland. General symptoms may include pain, nervousness, fatigue, fever, sweating, headache, nausea, vomiting, unintentional weight loss, bowel movement changes, irritability, and depression. Providers diagnose the disease based on history, symptoms, signs, and physical examination. Laboratory studies include blood tests for hormone levels. Imaging tests include ultrasound, computed tomography (CT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and positron emission tomography (PET) scans. Other diagnostic procedures include biopsy of the tumor.
In simple words: A neoplasm of uncertain behavior in an endocrine gland means there's a tumor in a gland that makes hormones, but doctors can't tell yet if it's cancerous or not based on the biopsy.Endocrine glands include the pituitary gland, thyroid, parathyroid, adrenal glands, pineal gland, and others.
Neoplasm of uncertain behavior of an endocrine gland is a pathological diagnosis that describes tumors which cannot be confirmed as benign or malignant based on histologic examination of cells from a biopsy specimen. Endocrine glands are organs and other structures in the body that secrete hormones or hormone-like substances. This category includes codes for neoplasm of uncertain behavior of the pituitary (the "master" gland), thyroid, parathyroid, adrenal glands, pineal gland, and other structures.
Example 1: A patient presents with fatigue, weight loss, and occasional headaches. Blood tests reveal abnormal hormone levels. A biopsy of the pituitary gland is performed, and the pathology report indicates a neoplasm of uncertain behavior., A patient undergoes a routine ultrasound of the neck which reveals a nodule on the thyroid.Fine needle aspiration biopsy results are inconclusive, describing a neoplasm of uncertain behavior.The patient is referred to an endocrinologist for further evaluation and management., During a CT scan of the abdomen for unrelated reasons, a mass is discovered on the adrenal gland. A biopsy is performed, and the pathology report returns as a neoplasm of uncertain behavior. The patient is closely monitored with repeat imaging and hormone level checks.
Documentation should include the location of the neoplasm, the type of endocrine gland affected, the results of the biopsy and pathology report explicitly stating "neoplasm of uncertain behavior", relevant signs and symptoms, results of hormone level testing, and imaging studies.
** Excludes1: multiple endocrine adenomatosis (E31.2-), multiple endocrine neoplasia (E31.2-), neoplasm of uncertain behavior of endocrine pancreas (D37.8), neoplasm of uncertain behavior of ovary (D39.1-), neoplasm of uncertain behavior of testis (D40.1-), neoplasm of uncertain behavior of thymus (D38.4)
- Specialties:Endocrinology, Oncology, Pathology, Surgery
- Place of Service:Inpatient Hospital, Outpatient Hospital, Physician's Office, Independent Clinic