Anaplstc lg cell lymph, ALK-neg, nodes of head, face, and nk

This code signifies a diagnosis of anaplastic large cell lymphoma (ALCL) that tests negative for anaplastic lymphoma kinase (ALK) gene rearrangement, specifically affecting the lymph nodes located in the head, face, or neck regions. ALK-negative ALCL is a distinct subtype of non-Hodgkin lymphoma characterized by large, anaplastic cells.

Use this code when documentation confirms a pathological diagnosis of ALK-negative anaplastic large cell lymphoma with primary involvement of lymph nodes in the head, face, or neck. This typically follows biopsy and immunohistochemical or molecular testing to determine ALK status and anatomical location.

• Ensure the pathology report explicitly states "ALK-negative" to differentiate from ALK-positive ALCL.
• Verify the specific anatomical site of involvement is limited to the head, face, or neck lymph nodes.
• Do not confuse with other types of non-Hodgkin lymphomas or ALCL affecting other body sites.