Malignant neoplasm of cardia

This code signifies a primary cancerous tumor originating in the cardia, the superior portion of the stomach where it joins the esophagus. This malignancy is an adenocarcinoma arising from the glandular tissue lining this specific anatomical region.

Apply this code when documentation explicitly states a primary malignant neoplasm located in the cardia of the stomach. This diagnosis is typically confirmed by biopsy and pathology reports. Use this code for initial encounters and subsequent treatment of the primary tumor.

• Differentiate from esophageal adenocarcinoma extending into the cardia; ensure the primary site is definitively gastric cardia.
• Do not use for secondary or metastatic neoplasms to the cardia; these require codes for secondary malignancy.
• Always sequence this code as the primary diagnosis when it is the reason for the encounter or treatment.