diffuse metastasis
We recently had a patient who presented to the hospital with previously undiagnosed metastatic cancer. She passed away within days of admission at our facility. Of course, her SOI/ROM appears to be low. I reviewed the chart with my Physician Liaison to ensure that nothing was missed. He stated that at one time a consultant told him that there was a specific code for "diffuse metastasis" that was significant (CC/MCC?). I do not know of such a code and have not been able to find one.
Does anyone know of an appropriate code or am I correct in thinking it does not exist?
The individual metastatic sites mentioned in the chart have been coded.
Thank you,
Katy
Does anyone know of an appropriate code or am I correct in thinking it does not exist?
The individual metastatic sites mentioned in the chart have been coded.
Thank you,
Katy
Comments
Carcinomatosis
Coding Clinic 4th Qtr. 1989, p. 10
Question:
“How many metastatic sites should be present in order to use the code for carcinomatosis?”
Answer:
Carcinomatosis is the condition of widespread dissemination of carcinoma throughout the body. If the physician lists the metastatic sites, all sites should be coded individually. If the physician documents the diagnosis of carcinomatosis without mention of specified sites, assign 199.0.”
Question:
How many metastatic sites should be present in order to use the code for carcinomatosis?
Answer:
Carcinomatosis is the condition of widespread dissemination of carcinoma throughout the body. If the physician lists the metastatic sites, all sites should be coded individually. If the physician documents the diagnosis of carcinomatosis without mention of specific sites, assign 199.0, Disseminated malignant neoplasm without specification of site.
Sharon Salinas, CCS
Barlow Respiratory Hospital
213-250-4200 Extension 3336
Katy