Neoplasm of uncertain behavior of trachea, bronchus, and lung

This code signifies a tumor originating in the trachea, bronchus, or lung where the pathologist cannot definitively determine if it is benign or malignant based on microscopic examination. It indicates an abnormal growth with features that are neither clearly benign nor clearly cancerous.

This code is appropriate when pathology reports describe a pulmonary or bronchial lesion as "atypical," "indeterminate," "borderline," or "of uncertain malignant potential." It should be used when further diagnostic workup is pending or when the final pathology report does not provide a definitive benign or malignant diagnosis.

• Do not use this code if the pathology definitively states benign (e.g., hamartoma) or malignant (e.g., adenocarcinoma).
• Always sequence this code as the primary diagnosis when it is the reason for the encounter, unless a more definitive diagnosis is established.
• Review the full pathology report carefully; avoid using this code if the final diagnosis is available and more specific.