Understanding a positive Cologuard test result? This guide covers Cologuard positive, colon cancer screening, fecal immunochemical test FIT, DNA stool test, colorectal cancer diagnosis, diagnostic colonoscopy, CPT codes for colonoscopy, ICD-10 code for positive Cologuard, and clinical documentation requirements for positive Cologuard. Learn about next steps after a positive Cologuard, including follow-up procedures and medical coding guidelines for accurate healthcare reimbursement.
Also known as
Other fecal abnormalities
Indicates abnormal findings in stool analysis, including blood.
Encounter for screening for colorectal cancer
Represents a healthcare visit specifically for colorectal cancer screening.
Malignant neoplasm of colon
Used if Cologuard leads to a confirmed colon cancer diagnosis.
Follow this step-by-step guide to choose the correct ICD-10 code.
Is the positive Cologuard test confirmed by colonoscopy?
When to use each related code
| Description |
|---|
| Positive Cologuard Test |
| Colorectal cancer |
| Advanced adenoma |
Patient presents today following a positive Cologuard test result. The patient reports no specific gastrointestinal complaints, such as abdominal pain, rectal bleeding, change in bowel habits, or unexplained weight loss. Past medical history includes hypertension and hyperlipidemia, managed with lisinopril and atorvastatin, respectively. Family history is negative for colorectal cancer. Surgical history is significant for cholecystectomy. The patient is a never-smoker and denies alcohol use. Physical examination reveals a soft, non-tender abdomen with normal bowel sounds. Rectal exam was unremarkable. Given the positive Cologuard result, indicative of the presence of altered DNA andor hemoglobin in the stool sample, a diagnostic colonoscopy is recommended and scheduled to evaluate for colorectal cancer, polyps, or other colorectal pathologies. Pre-procedure instructions for colonoscopy preparation were reviewed with the patient. Risks, benefits, and alternatives to colonoscopy were discussed, and informed consent was obtained. The importance of colon cancer screening and early detection was emphasized. This positive Cologuard finding necessitates further evaluation, and the results of the colonoscopy will guide subsequent management, including potential biopsy, polypectomy, or referral to gastroenterology or oncology if indicated. ICD-10 code R19.5 (Other fecal abnormalities) may be considered for billing purposes until a definitive diagnosis is established following colonoscopy. CPT codes for the colonoscopy and any associated procedures will be determined at the time of the procedure. Follow-up appointment scheduled post-colonoscopy to discuss findings and plan.