Understanding ASCUS (Atypical Squamous Cells of Undetermined Significance) in healthcare? This resource provides information on ASC-US, Atypical Squamous Cells of Undetermined Significance diagnosis, clinical documentation, and related medical coding terms for accurate healthcare records. Learn about the significance of ASCUS Pap smear results and relevant medical terminology for effective communication in clinical settings.
Also known as
Atypical squamous cells of undetermined significance
Abnormal cervical cells found during a Pap smear, uncertain if cancerous.
Noninflammatory disorders of cervix uteri
Covers various non-cancerous cervical conditions, including dysplasia.
In situ neoplasms of cervix uteri
Early-stage cervical cancer confined to the surface layer of cells.
Encounter for other screening for malignant neoplasms
Encompasses screening exams for various cancers, including cervical cancer.
Follow this step-by-step guide to choose the correct ICD-10 code.
Is ASCUS or ASC-US documented?
When to use each related code
| Description |
|---|
| Mildly abnormal squamous cells. |
| Low-grade squamous intraepithelial lesion. |
| High-grade squamous intraepithelial lesion. |
ASCUS coding requires specifying HPV status (positive, negative, or not tested) for accurate reimbursement and clinical documentation.
If ASCUS is followed by reflex HPV testing, both ASCUS and the HPV test results must be documented and coded.
Accurate coding for ASCUS management (e.g., colposcopy, repeat Pap) is crucial for quality reporting and appropriate follow-up.
Q: What is the recommended ASCUS Pap smear management protocol for a 25-year-old patient with a negative HPV test?
A: For a 25-year-old patient with an ASCUS Pap smear result and a negative HPV test, current guidelines recommend routine screening in 3 years. The negative HPV test significantly reduces the risk of underlying high-grade cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (CIN). This approach aligns with the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) recommendations, prioritizing a balance between thorough screening and minimizing unnecessary interventions. Explore how HPV testing improves the accuracy of ASCUS Pap smear management and reduces the need for immediate colposcopy.
Q: How do I distinguish between ASCUS and LSIL on Pap smear cytology, and what are the implications for patient management?
A: Distinguishing between ASCUS (Atypical Squamous Cells of Undetermined Significance) and LSIL (Low-Grade Squamous Intraepithelial Lesion) on Pap smear cytology can be challenging. ASCUS typically involves mild nuclear abnormalities, while LSIL shows more pronounced nuclear changes and a slightly increased nuclear-to-cytoplasmic ratio, suggestive of HPV infection. While both can indicate HPV infection, LSIL carries a higher likelihood of underlying CIN. Management diverges with ASCUS often warranting HPV testing or repeat cytology, whereas LSIL generally necessitates colposcopy for further evaluation. Consider implementing standardized cytology interpretation criteria within your practice to improve diagnostic accuracy and ensure consistent patient management. Learn more about the cytological features distinguishing ASCUS and LSIL.
Patient presents for routine gynecological examination including cervical cancer screening with Pap smear. The patient denies abnormal vaginal bleeding, discharge, or pelvic pain. Past medical history is unremarkable for gynecologic abnormalities. Family history is non-contributory. Physical examination reveals a normal appearing cervix. Pelvic examination is otherwise unremarkable. Pap smear results returned as ASCUS, Atypical Squamous Cells of Undetermined Significance. Differential diagnosis includes low-grade squamous intraepithelial lesion (LSIL) and high-grade squamous intraepithelial lesion (HSIL). Given the ASCUS Pap result, reflexive HPV testing was performed and results are pending. Management will be determined based on HPV results and may include repeat Pap smear, colposcopy, or further diagnostic testing per current guidelines for ASCUS Pap smear management. Patient education provided regarding the significance of ASCUS Pap smear results and the importance of follow-up care. Patient expressed understanding of the plan. ICD-10 code R87.619 used for abnormal Pap smear, unspecified. CPT codes for the Pap smear and HPV testing will be billed accordingly depending on laboratory performed. Follow-up appointment scheduled.