subject: Right ICD 9 Code for Hodgkin's Lymphoma [print this page] Selecting the right ICD-9 code for Hodgkin's lymphoma is a key element of your claim for treatment under the Stanford V regimen. But if you do not know where to look, you could easily neglect to add the fifth digit this code range requires. Read on to get tips on which ICD 9 codes will most likely apply to Stanford V claims.
Take a closer look at Hodgkin's lymphoma
Hodgkin's lymphoma or Hodgkin's disease is a disease of the lymphatic system, which is part of the body's immune system. The lymphatic system covers lymph nodes, which are found throughout the body, and small vessels called lymphatics that connect the nodes. It also includes the spleen, thymus gland, tonsils and bone marrow. The disease involves abnormal cells that don't die the way normal cells do and produce more abnormal cells.
As the disease advances, it can diminish the body's ability to fight infection. Selecting the right ICD-9 code for Hodgkin's lymphoma can certainly be a challenge. The first step is to narrow down your options to a single code range: 201.xx, Hodgkin's disease. Check pathology report for sub category once you have determined that your appropriate code is in the 201.xx range, you will need to select which fourth digit applies to your case.
Smart move: You must look at the pathology report to see to it that you're coding to the highest degree of specificity.
Consider whether a doctor has confirmed the diagnosis contained on the pathology report and whether the diagnosis is relevant to the claim type you're coding. If the pathology report is present, however not linked to the provider's documentation, query the provider for the most specific ICD-9 code to use on the date of service.
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