Malignant neoplasm of cardia

This code signifies a cancerous tumor originating in the cardia, the superior opening of the stomach where it joins the esophagus. This malignancy is a type of gastric adenocarcinoma specifically located at the gastroesophageal junction.

Apply this code when documentation clearly indicates a primary malignant neoplasm confined to the cardia of the stomach. This diagnosis is typically confirmed by biopsy and imaging studies. Use this code for initial encounters, active treatment, or surveillance of this specific gastric cancer.

• Differentiate from esophageal carcinoma extending to the cardia; this code is for primary gastric cardia involvement.
• Ensure documentation specifies "cardia" and not a more general stomach location to avoid miscoding.
• Sequence according to the reason for the encounter; if active treatment, this will be the primary diagnosis.