C74.91

HCC Category Mapping

What This Code Means

This code describes cancer that has developed in the right adrenal gland (a small hormone-producing gland that sits on top of the kidney), but the specific location within the gland has not been identified. The cancer cells are malignant, meaning they can spread to other parts of the body.

Coding Tips

• •Use this code only when the documentation does not specify which part of the right adrenal gland is affected; if a specific location is documented (such as cortex or medulla), use the more specific code instead
• •Ensure laterality is clearly documented as 'right' before assigning this code; verify the distinction between C74.01 (cortex), C74.02 (medulla), and C74.91 (unspecified part) based on pathology or imaging reports

Clinical Significance

Malignant neoplasm of unspecified part of the right adrenal gland provides laterality but lacks compartment specification (cortex vs. medulla). This intermediate specificity code is appropriate when documentation confirms right-sided adrenal cancer but pathology does not clarify whether the tumor originated in the cortex or medulla.

Documentation Requirements

• ✓Documentation confirming right-sided adrenal malignancy
• ✓Pathology report — attempt to determine cortex vs. medulla origin
• ✓Hormonal evaluation (cortisol/androgens suggest cortex; catecholamines suggest medulla)
• ✓Staging information
• ✓Treatment status and management plan

Commonly Confused Codes