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K25.9
ICD-10-CM
Cameron Lesions

Learn about Cameron lesions (Cameron erosions), a type of hiatal hernia ulcer. This resource provides information on diagnosis, clinical documentation, and medical coding for Cameron lesions, supporting healthcare professionals and accurate medical record keeping. Find details on symptoms, treatment, and the connection between Cameron lesions and hiatal hernias.

Also known as

Cameron Erosions
Hiatal Hernia Ulcers

Diagnosis Snapshot

Key Facts
  • Definition : Linear gastric ulcers at the diaphragm in patients with a hiatal hernia.
  • Clinical Signs : Often asymptomatic, but can cause iron deficiency anemia, occult bleeding, dyspepsia, and epigastric pain.
  • Common Settings : Associated with large hiatal hernias, often requiring surgical repair.

Related ICD-10 Code Ranges

Complete code families applicable to AAPC K25.9 Coding
K22.1

Gastro-esophageal reflux disease with esophagitis

Inflammation of the esophagus due to stomach acid reflux, often associated with Cameron lesions.

K22.8

Other reflux esophagitis

Unspecified types of esophagitis caused by reflux, which may include Cameron lesions.

K22.9

Gastro-esophageal reflux disease without esophagitis

Acid reflux without inflammation, where Cameron lesions can still potentially occur.

Code-Specific Guidance

Decision Tree for

Follow this step-by-step guide to choose the correct ICD-10 code.

Are the lesions/erosions associated with a hiatal hernia?

  • Yes

    Is there active bleeding?

  • No

    Coding guidance: Cameron lesions/erosions not associated with a hiatal hernia are not specifically coded. Consider coding the underlying cause if known (e.g., esophagitis).

Code Comparison

Related Codes Comparison

When to use each related code

Description
Linear gastric ulcers at diaphragm in hiatal hernia.
Protrusion of stomach into chest through diaphragm opening.
Stomach inflammation, various causes.

Documentation Best Practices

Documentation Checklist
  • Document endoscopic findings: location, size, and appearance of lesions.
  • Confirm association with hiatal hernia using imaging (e.g., barium swallow, CT).
  • Describe patient symptoms (e.g., dysphagia, odynophagia, anemia).
  • Record treatment plan (e.g., PPI, iron supplementation, surgery).
  • Specify ICD-10 code K22.1 for Cameron lesions.

Coding and Audit Risks

Common Risks
  • Hiatal Hernia Coding

    Miscoding Cameron lesions as the hiatal hernia itself instead of a complication. Requires distinct ICD-10 codes.

  • Ulcer Specificity

    Documenting and coding ulcer location and characteristics is crucial for accurate reimbursement and quality metrics.

  • Erosion vs. Ulcer

    Distinguishing between erosion and ulcer impacts coding. Clear physician documentation is essential for accurate code assignment.

Mitigation Tips

Best Practices
  • PPI therapy, lifestyle changes for GERD management
  • Document hiatal hernia size, location precisely for ICD-10 K44.9
  • Endoscopy with biopsy for confirmation, rule out malignancy (C16)
  • Monitor iron levels, treat anemia if present (D50)
  • Surgical repair if severe, refractory to medical management

Clinical Decision Support

Checklist
  • Confirm upper GI bleed with hiatal hernia present.
  • Endoscopy shows linear ulcers at diaphragmatic pinch.
  • Exclude other esophageal/gastric ulcer causes (NSAIDs, H. pylori).
  • Document lesion location and size for accurate coding (ICD-10 K22.6).
  • Consider PPI therapy; counsel patient on lifestyle modifications.

Reimbursement and Quality Metrics

Impact Summary
  • Cameron Lesions (C) Reimbursement: Impacts coding for hiatal hernia, esophagitis, and GI bleeding. Optimize ICD-10 K22.1, K21.0, K92.2 for accurate claims.
  • Coding Accuracy: Cameron Lesions vs. erosions impacts specificity. Correct coding ensures appropriate reimbursement and quality metrics.
  • Hospital Reporting: Precise Cameron Lesions diagnosis improves data for gastrointestinal disease tracking and resource allocation.
  • Quality Metrics Impact: Accurate Cameron Lesions coding affects GI bleed, anemia management, and hospital readmission reporting.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Common Questions and Answers

Q: How can I differentiate Cameron lesions from other hiatal hernia-related ulcers endoscopically and histologically?

A: Differentiating Cameron lesions from other hiatal hernia-related ulcers requires a combination of endoscopic and histological findings. Endoscopically, Cameron lesions typically appear as linear or crescent-shaped erosions or ulcers at the neck of a large hiatal hernia, where the diaphragmatic crura impinge on the stomach. They are often located on the lesser curvature side. While other ulcers may occur within the hernia sac, they lack this specific location and morphology. Histologically, Cameron lesions demonstrate non-specific inflammatory changes, including erosion or ulceration of the mucosa, edema, and vascular congestion. Features that might distinguish them from other ulcers include the absence of Helicobacter pylori infection in the context of a hiatal hernia and signs of mechanical trauma. Explore how incorporating both macroscopic and microscopic findings improves diagnostic accuracy for Cameron lesions. Consider implementing a standardized endoscopic reporting protocol to ensure consistent documentation of hiatal hernia-related findings.

Q: What are the best management strategies for Cameron lesions causing iron deficiency anemia in patients with a large hiatal hernia?

A: Managing Cameron lesions causing iron deficiency anemia requires a multi-pronged approach. Initial management typically involves addressing the iron deficiency with oral or intravenous iron supplementation. However, long-term management necessitates addressing the underlying mechanical issue of the hiatal hernia. Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) are often prescribed to reduce acid exposure and promote healing of the lesions. In cases where medical management fails to resolve the anemia or symptoms, surgical intervention, such as hiatal hernia repair (e.g., laparoscopic fundoplication, Nissen fundoplication), may be necessary to eliminate the mechanical compression and prevent recurrence. The choice of surgical technique depends on factors such as hernia size, patient comorbidities, and surgeon experience. Learn more about the effectiveness of different surgical approaches for hiatal hernia repair in patients with Cameron lesions and refractory iron deficiency anemia.

Quick Tips

Practical Coding Tips
  • Code K22.1 for Cameron lesions
  • Document lesion location precisely
  • Query physician if hernia size unclear
  • Consider associated esophagitis codes
  • Rule out Mallory-Weiss syndrome

Documentation Templates

Patient presents with symptoms suggestive of Cameron lesions, also known as Cameron erosions or hiatal hernia ulcers.  The patient reports experiencing upper abdominal pain, heartburn, and occasional dysphagia.  These symptoms are consistent with the clinical presentation of Cameron lesions, which are linear gastric erosions or ulcers located at the diaphragmatic impression of a hiatal hernia.  Physical examination revealed epigastric tenderness.  Upper endoscopy confirmed the presence of linear erosions at the neck of a hiatal hernia, consistent with the diagnostic criteria for Cameron lesions.  Differential diagnoses considered included peptic ulcer disease, esophagitis, and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).  The patient's current medications include over-the-counter antacids with limited symptom relief.  A treatment plan was initiated, focusing on managing the associated hiatal hernia and reducing gastric acid secretion.  This includes prescribing proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) for acid suppression and lifestyle modifications such as dietary changes and weight management.  Patient education was provided regarding the importance of medication compliance and follow-up appointments.  The patient will be scheduled for a repeat endoscopy in three months to assess the effectiveness of the treatment and monitor for any potential complications such as bleeding or stricture formation.  ICD-10 code K22.1 (hiatal hernia with esophagitis) is documented for medical billing and coding purposes.  This diagnosis and treatment plan are consistent with current medical guidelines for Cameron lesions and hiatal hernia management.
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