Malignant neoplasm of lower third of esophagus

This code identifies a cancerous tumor originating in the distal third of the esophagus, specifically the portion closest to the stomach. This malignancy typically involves the squamous cells or adenomatous cells lining the esophageal lumen in this region.

Assign this code when documentation specifies a primary malignant neoplasm located in the lower third of the esophagus. This diagnosis is typically confirmed by biopsy and imaging studies (e.g., endoscopy with biopsy, CT scan).

• Differentiate carefully from malignancies involving the gastroesophageal junction, which have a separate code.
• Ensure the physician's documentation clearly specifies "lower third" to avoid miscoding to other esophageal segments.
• Always sequence this code as the primary diagnosis when it is the reason for the encounter, unless another condition is specifically identified as the primary reason for treatment.