Neoplasm of unspecified behavior of respiratory system

This code signifies a growth or mass within the respiratory system whose biological behavior (benign, malignant, or uncertain) has not yet been definitively determined by pathology. It indicates that further diagnostic workup, such as biopsy and histological examination, is required to classify the nature of the neoplasm.

Use this code when documentation describes a respiratory system neoplasm (e.g., lung, bronchus, trachea, larynx) for which a pathology report confirming benign, malignant, or uncertain behavior is not yet available. This is appropriate for initial encounters where a mass is identified but not yet fully characterized.

• Avoid using this code if a definitive pathology report is available; instead, code to the specific benign, malignant, or uncertain behavior.
• Do not use for neoplasms of the pleura, mediastinum, or thymus; these have specific codes for unspecified behavior.
• Always query the provider if the behavior of the neoplasm is known but not clearly documented.