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C71.9
ICD-10-CM
Glioblastoma Multiforme

Find comprehensive information on Glioblastoma Multiforme (GBM) including ICD-10 codes, clinical documentation improvement (CDI) best practices, diagnosis, treatment, prognosis, and healthcare resources. This resource provides details on GBM staging, histology, molecular markers, and brain tumor coding for accurate medical recordkeeping. Learn about glioblastoma multiforme survival rates, clinical trials, and the latest research advancements for optimizing patient care.

Also known as

GBM
Glioblastoma
Grade IV Astrocytoma

Diagnosis Snapshot

Key Facts
  • Definition : Aggressive, malignant brain tumor arising from glial cells.
  • Clinical Signs : Headaches, seizures, nausea, vomiting, cognitive decline, focal neurological deficits.
  • Common Settings : Neuro-oncology clinics, neurosurgery departments, radiation oncology centers.

Related ICD-10 Code Ranges

Complete code families applicable to AAPC C71.9 Coding
C71.0-C71.9

Malignant neoplasm of brain

Cancers originating in brain tissues.

C70-C72

Malignant neoplasms of meninges, brain

Covers cancers affecting brain and surrounding membranes.

C00-D49

Neoplasms

Broad category encompassing all types of abnormal growths.

Code-Specific Guidance

Decision Tree for

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

Is the diagnosis Glioblastoma, confirmed?

  • Yes

    Is it NOS or specified type?

  • No

    Do NOT code as Glioblastoma. Review clinical documentation for alternative diagnosis.

Code Comparison

Related Codes Comparison

When to use each related code

Description
Aggressive brain tumor
Anaplastic Astrocytoma
Diffuse Astrocytoma

Documentation Best Practices

Documentation Checklist
  • Glioblastoma Multiforme diagnosis documented
  • WHO grade IV specified with supporting pathology
  • Tumor location and size clearly described
  • Imaging results (MRI/CT) details included
  • Molecular marker testing (IDH1/2, MGMT) status

Coding and Audit Risks

Common Risks
  • Histology Confirmation

    Missing or inadequate documentation of histologic confirmation of GBM diagnosis impacting accurate coding (ICD-10 C71.0).

  • Laterality Specificity

    Lack of clear laterality documentation (right, left, bilateral) for GBM affecting proper ICD-10 coding and reimbursement.

  • Grade/Behavior Documentation

    Insufficient documentation explicitly stating Grade IV or malignant behavior of astrocytoma for accurate GBM coding.

Mitigation Tips

Best Practices
  • Accurate ICD-10 coding (C71.9) crucial for GBM claims.
  • Detailed clinical documentation improves GBM treatment, optimizes reimbursement.
  • Timely neurosurgery consult, radiation, chemo improve GBM outcomes. Document precisely.
  • Molecular testing (MGMT) guides GBM therapy, impacts code selection. Clear documentation needed.
  • Regular neuro-oncology follow-up, supportive care crucial. Thorough documentation aids compliance.

Clinical Decision Support

Checklist
  • Confirm contrast-enhanced MRI brain scan (ICD-10-CM C71.9)
  • Verify histopathological diagnosis GBM (SNOMED CT 94003007)
  • Assess neurological exam for focal deficits (LOINC 72084-6)
  • Review molecular markers: IDH1/2, MGMT (LOINC 693-7/2169-8)

Reimbursement and Quality Metrics

Impact Summary
  • Glioblastoma Multiforme reimbursement hinges on accurate ICD-10-CM (C71.0-C71.9) and CPT coding for surgery, radiation, and chemotherapy. Impacts: higher case mix index, improved Days PUF.
  • Coding quality directly affects Glioblastoma Multiforme claims. Correctly coded procedures (craniotomy, biopsy) ensure appropriate MS-DRG assignment and minimize denials.
  • Timely and accurate coding of Glioblastoma Multiforme treatment maximizes revenue integrity. Impacts: reduced A/R days, optimized payer contract compliance.
  • Data quality for Glioblastoma Multiforme impacts hospital reporting on quality metrics like readmission rates, survival time, and patient-reported outcomes.

Streamline Your Medical Coding

Let S10.AI help you select the most accurate ICD-10 codes for . Our AI-powered assistant ensures compliance and reduces coding errors.

Quick Tips

Practical Coding Tips
  • Code C71.9 for GBM, unless more specific
  • Document laterality (left/right/bilateral)
  • Abstract path reports for histology confirmation
  • Check for leptomeningeal spread, code C70.1 if present
  • Consider GBM-related codes like G91.89 for complications

Documentation Templates

Patient presents with clinical manifestations consistent with Glioblastoma Multiforme (GBM), a highly malignant primary brain tumor.  Presenting symptoms include persistent headaches, seizures, cognitive decline, focal neurological deficits such as hemiparesis or aphasia, and increased intracranial pressure.  Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) with contrast reveals a heterogeneously enhancing lesion with central necrosis, characteristic of GBM, located within the (specify lobe location e.g., frontal lobe).  Differential diagnosis includes anaplastic astrocytoma, brain metastasis, and abscess.  Histopathological analysis following surgical resection confirmed the diagnosis of Glioblastoma, WHO Grade IV.  Molecular profiling demonstrates (specify molecular markers e.g., IDH-wildtype, MGMT promoter methylation status).  Treatment plan includes maximal safe surgical resection followed by concurrent chemoradiation with temozolomide, aligned with current standard of care guidelines.  Patient will be monitored for treatment response and potential adverse effects such as myelosuppression, radiation necrosis, and neurocognitive decline.  Prognosis for Glioblastoma remains poor, and palliative care options will be discussed with the patient and family.  Referral to neuro-oncology, radiation oncology, and physical therapy is initiated.  ICD-10 code C71.9, malignant neoplasm of brain, unspecified, is assigned pending further specification based on laterality and histological confirmation.  CPT codes for surgical resection, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy administration will be documented upon completion of those procedures.  Continued surveillance with serial MRI imaging is planned to assess treatment response and disease progression.