Observation for suspected malignant neoplasm

This code signifies a patient is being evaluated for the possible presence of a cancerous tumor, but a definitive diagnosis has not yet been established. It indicates a period of monitoring and diagnostic testing to rule out or confirm malignancy.

Apply this code when a patient presents with signs, symptoms, or abnormal test results suggestive of cancer, but further investigation is required. It is appropriate for situations where a biopsy or other definitive diagnostic procedure is pending or has not yet yielded a conclusive result.

• Do not use this code once a definitive diagnosis of malignancy (or benign neoplasm) has been made.
• Always code the presenting signs and symptoms or abnormal findings first, if known, as additional diagnoses.
• This code is for observation only; it does not represent treatment for a confirmed malignancy.