ICD-10 Code for Cancer Survivor
The appropriate ICD-10 code for a cancer survivor is Z85.xx, which designates "Personal history of malignant neoplasm," with the specific fourth and fifth digits indicating the site of the previous cancer.
Code Structure and Application
The Z85 code series is used to document a personal history of malignant neoplasm in patients who have completed cancer treatment and are no longer receiving active therapy for that cancer 1
The fourth and fifth digits specify the anatomic site of the previous malignancy (e.g., Z85.3 for personal history of breast cancer, Z85.0 for personal history of digestive organ cancers) 1
This code should be used when the cancer is no longer present and the patient is not currently receiving treatment directed at the malignancy, but the history remains clinically relevant for ongoing surveillance and management of late effects 2
Clinical Context for Code Usage
Cancer survivors require ongoing monitoring for recurrence, second primary cancers, and treatment-related complications, making accurate documentation with Z85 codes essential for comprehensive care 2
The code applies to patients across the survivorship continuum, from those who completed treatment years ago to those recently finishing active therapy 2
Documentation with Z85 codes facilitates appropriate surveillance protocols, including imaging studies, laboratory monitoring, and specialist referrals as recommended by survivorship guidelines 2
Important Coding Considerations
Do not use Z85 codes if the patient is still receiving active cancer treatment (chemotherapy, radiation, targeted therapy) - use the appropriate C-code for active malignancy instead 1
Multiple Z85 codes can be assigned if the patient has a history of more than one primary malignancy 1
Z85 codes should be used in conjunction with codes for any ongoing complications or late effects of cancer treatment, such as lymphedema, neuropathy, or cardiotoxicity 2
The code remains relevant indefinitely, as cancer survivors face lifelong risks of recurrence and treatment-related complications requiring ongoing surveillance 2