C81.48

HCC Category Mapping

What This Code Means

This is a type of Hodgkin lymphoma (a cancer of the lymph system) where lymphocytes are the predominant cell type, and the cancer is present in lymph nodes at multiple locations throughout the body. It represents a less common subtype of Hodgkin lymphoma with a generally favorable prognosis.

Coding Tips

• •The '48' extension indicates multiple lymph node sites are involved; ensure documentation specifies involvement of lymph nodes at different anatomical regions (e.g., cervical, axillary, mediastinal, abdominal) to justify this code rather than single-site codes (C81.41-C81.47)
• •This code requires confirmation of both the histological subtype (lymphocyte-rich) and the extent of disease; coordinate with pathology reports and staging documentation to ensure accurate code selection and avoid confusion with other Hodgkin lymphoma subtypes

Clinical Significance

Lymphocyte-rich Hodgkin lymphoma involving multiple lymph node sites indicates disseminated disease within a favorable-prognosis subtype. Multi-site involvement requires comprehensive staging and may alter treatment intensity despite the generally good prognosis. The code captures disease affecting two or more distinct nodal regions, which typically corresponds to stage II or higher.

Documentation Requirements

• ✓Pathology confirming lymphocyte-rich classical Hodgkin lymphoma
• ✓Imaging documenting at least two distinct lymph node regions with disease involvement
• ✓Identification of each specific nodal region in clinical documentation
• ✓Complete staging with Ann Arbor classification
• ✓Treatment plan and encounter-specific assessment

Commonly Confused Codes