Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer ICD 10 Codes: Learn how Non‑Small Cell Lung Cancer (NSCLC), which makes up about 85% of lung cancers, is classified under ICD‑10—codes C34.x for lung and bronchus tumors. This guide covers specific codes, histological subtypes, staging, early screening, and implications for coding and treatment.
Non‑Small Cell Lung Cancer (NSCLC) accounts for around 85% of all lung cancers Healthy Post. Accurate ICD‑10 coding—especially under C34.x—is essential for diagnosis precision, insurance billing, research, and treatment planning
Non small cell lung cancer ICD 10: Why ICD‑10 Coding for NSCLC Matters
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Enhanced documentation: Distinguishes tumor location and laterality (e.g., C34.11 for right upper lobe)
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Targeted treatment: Coding reflects molecular subtypes (e.g., EGFR+, ALK+) for precision therapy
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Insurance and data analytics: Specific codes support accurate claims and contribute to better public health tracking
Key ICD‑10 Codes for NSCLC
Most common NSCLC-related ICD‑10-CM codes:
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C34.0 – Main bronchus
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C34.1 – Upper lobe
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C34.2 – Middle lobe
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C34.3 – Lower lobe
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C34.8 – Overlapping sites
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C34.9 – Unspecified lung
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With laterality: e.g., C34.11 = right upper lobe lung cancer, C34.32 = left lower lobe cancer
Recent Updates & Molecular Coding (2025)
New codes now specify molecular markers:
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C34.31 – Adenocarcinoma with EGFR mutation
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C34.32 – Squamous cell carcinoma with PD-L1 expression
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C34.33 – ALK‑positive NSCLC
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C34.34 – ROS1‑positive lung malignancy
These reflect the shift toward personalized treatment planning.
Non small cell lung cancer ICD 10: NSCLC Subtypes, Staging & Survival
NSCLC includes:
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Adenocarcinoma (common in non-smokers)
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Squamous cell carcinoma (linked to smoking)
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Large cell carcinoma
Staging uses TNM (Tumor, Node, Metastasis), with 5-year survival dropping from ~60–70% at stage I to <5% at stage IV
Early Detection and Screening
Low-dose CT scans are recommended annually for adults aged 50–80 with a 20+ pack-year smoking history . Early detection dramatically improves outcomes.
Also Read: 2025 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code C34.90
Non small cell lung cancer ICD 10: Treatment Approaches
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Surgery remains primary for early-stage NSCLC (lobectomy, segmentectomy)
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Targeted therapies for EGFR, ALK, PD-L1, ROS1 positive tumors
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Multidisciplinary care, including chemo‑radiation and immunotherapy (e.g., pembrolizumab) for advanced disease.
ICD‑10 Coding Best Practices
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Be specific: Always include laterality (right vs. left) and lobe location.
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Add modifier codes: For histology, mutations, metastases.
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Document rigorously: Ensure reports include tumor site, staging, molecular lab results, and treatment details
Accurate ICD‑10 coding (C34.x) for NSCLC not only improves documentation and billing but also aligns with modern precision medicine. Coupled with early detection, detailed staging, and molecular profiling, these codes support effective treatment and improved patient outcomes
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