Pap Smear ICD-10-CM Codes
Explore our comprehensive guide on Pap Smear ICD-10-CM codes. Improve your clinical documentation and billing accuracy with the right codes.
Fact Checked by Ericka Pingol.
What ICD-10 Codes Are Used for Pap Smear?
In the realm of Pap Smear ICD codes, several ICD-10-CM codes come into play for precise medical documentation. Here are some of the frequently used ones:
- Z12.4: Encounter for screening for malignant neoplasm of cervix: This code is used when a patient undergoes a pap smear as part of routine screening for cervical cancer.
- Z01.419: Encounter for gynecological examination (general) (routine) without abnormal findings: This code is used with a code from category Z12 when a pap smear is performed during a routine gynecological exam, and no abnormal results are identified.
- R87.619: Unspecified abnormal cytological findings in specimens from cervix uteri: This code is used when a pap smear results in unspecified abnormal cytological findings.
- R87.629: Unspecified abnormal histological findings in specimens from cervix uteri: This code is used when a pap smear results in unspecified abnormal histological findings.
Which Pap Smear ICD Codes Are Billable?
Here's a short introduction to each of the billable ICD codes mentioned above:
- Z12.4: Yes, billable. It is used for regular cervical cancer screenings involving a Pap smear.
- Z01.419: Yes, billable. It is used when a Pap smear is conducted during a routine gynecological exam without abnormal findings.
- R87.619: Yes, billable. It is used for unspecified abnormal cytological results from a Pap smear.
- R87.629: Yes, billable. This code denotes unspecified abnormal histological findings from a Pap smear.
Clinical Information
Pap smear, or Pap test, is a procedure to test for cervical cancer in women. Here's an expanded understanding of this procedure:
- It involves collecting cells from the cervix — the lower, narrow end of the uterus.
- The primary purpose of a Pap smear is to identify cellular changes in the cervix that could denote the presence of cancer or precancerous conditions.
- Regular Pap smear screenings can detect precancerous changes, which might be treated to prevent cancer development.
- It's recommended for women between ages 21 and 65; the frequency depends on age and health history.
- A Pap smear is usually done with a pelvic exam and, for some women, testing for human papillomavirus (HPV).
Synonyms Include:
- Pap Test
- Cervical Smear
- Cervical Screening
- Cervical Cytology
- Papanicolaou Test
Commonly asked questions
No, a Pap smear is not used to detect sexually transmitted diseases. It is designed to screen for cervical cancer. However, it can sometimes indicate an HPV infection, a sexually transmitted virus linked to cervical cancer.
The frequency of Pap smears depends on age and health history. Most women are advised to get a Pap smear every three years starting at age 21. However, your doctor may recommend a different screening schedule based on your health risks.
No, a Pap smear is designed to detect cervical cancer, not ovarian cancer. There's currently no standard practical screening test for ovarian cancer. Regular check-ups and awareness of symptoms can help detect the disease early.
