The ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code Z86.010 is designated as “Personal history of colon polyps.” This code is part of the International Classification of Diseases, Tenth Revision, Clinical Modification (ICD-10-CM) system, used primarily in the United States for medical coding and reporting. Understanding this code is crucial for healthcare professionals involved in diagnosis coding, billing, and medical records management.
Z86.010 falls under the broader category of “Personal history of other diseases” (Z86) and more specifically, “Personal history of benign neoplasm” (Z86.01). It is used to indicate that a patient has a documented history of colon polyps, which are benign growths in the colon. It’s important to note that while Z86.010 signifies a history of colon polyps, it is considered a non-specific code. This means that for reimbursement purposes, it is generally advised to use more detailed subcodes available under Z86.010 when possible. These subcodes offer a greater level of specificity regarding the type of colon polyps.
Synonyms and Applicable Terms
Several terms are considered approximate synonyms for Z86.010, which can aid in understanding its scope:
- History of adenomatous polyp of colon
- History of polyp (benign tumor) of the colon
- History of polyp of colon
- Personal history of colorectal polyps
- Personal history of rectal polyps
These synonyms highlight that Z86.010 encompasses a personal history of benign polyps in various parts of the colon and rectum.
Code History and Updates
The code Z86.010 has an interesting history within the ICD-10-CM system. Initially introduced in 2016, it remained in use through 2024. However, in the 2025 update, a significant change occurred. The original Z86.010 was deleted and then reintroduced as a new code, effective October 1, 2024. This reintroduction coincides with the availability of more specific codes under Z86.010, such as:
- Z86.0100: Personal history of unspecified colon polyps
- Z86.0101: Personal history of adenomatous and serrated colon polyps
- Z86.0102: Personal history of hyperplastic colon polyps
- Z86.0109: Personal history of other colon polyps
This hierarchical structure emphasizes the importance of using the most precise code available to accurately reflect the patient’s medical history, especially for claim reimbursement and detailed patient records. While Z86.010 can be used to indicate a general history of colon polyps, the subcodes provide valuable granularity for specific types of polyps.
Context within ICD-10-CM
Z86.010 is positioned within a range of related codes in the ICD-10-CM system. Codes adjacent to it include personal history of benign neoplasms in other organs, such as breast (Z86.000), cervix uteri (Z86.001), and other digestive organs (Z86.004). This placement illustrates that Z86.010 is part of a broader classification of personal histories of benign tumors across different body sites.
Conclusion
In summary, diagnosis code Z86.010 is a crucial tool for documenting a patient’s history of colon polyps within the ICD-10-CM framework. While it serves as a general code, the availability of more specific subcodes in the 2025 update encourages healthcare providers and coders to utilize the most detailed codes possible for accurate medical documentation and billing processes. Understanding the nuances of Z86.010 and its related codes is essential for effective and precise medical coding practices in the US healthcare system.
