Re: Merkel cell carcimona

by Lola
(Florida)

Thank you for a very informative website.

Effective Oct 2009 Merkel Cell Carcinoma was assigned to ICD-9-CM category 209. Do you know where it is referenced in the Volume II Alphabetical Index? I cannot find it there.
Thank you.

Lola,

Our ICD-9 (2010 edition with valid codes thru September 30, 2009) has it shown in the alphabetical index under Carcinoma - Merkel Cell. We're currently using the Ingenix 2010 Expert (Page 41 of Volume 2). If it's any help here's a summary of the 4th and 5th digits:

Merkel cell carcinoma:

• Buttock - 209.36


• Ear - 209.31


• Eylid(Including canthus) - 209.31


• Face - 209.31


• Genitals - 209.36


• Lip - 209.31


• Lower limb - 209.34


• Neck - 209.32


• Nodal presentation - 209.75


• Scalp - 209.32


• Secondary (any site) - 209.75


• Specified site NEC - 209.36


• Trunk - 209.35


• Unknown primary site - 209.75


• Upper limb - 209.33


• Visceral metastatic presentation - 209.75

Hope this answers your question Lola - Thanks!

Gina.