What is the ICD-10 code for gynecomastia and how is it used for medical billing and insurance purposes?

Gynecomastia, a condition characterized by excessive breast tissue in males, has an International Classification of Diseases, 10th Revision, Clinical Modification (ICD-10-CM) code of N62.

The ICD-10-CM code N62 is used to indicate a diagnosis for reimbursement purposes and became effective on October 1, 2023.

Physiological gynecomastia is normally observed in newborns, adolescents, and aging males due to hormonal changes during these life stages.

The diagnostic features of gynecomastia include a breast lump or lump-like swelling, which may be tender to touch and move easily within the breast tissue.

The condition may also be diagnosed through physical examination, which may reveal palpable breast tissue extending outside the area under the nipple and measuring ≥2 cm in diameter.

Treatment options for gynecomastia include observation, medical therapy, and surgical treatment, depending on the underlying cause and severity of the condition.

Gynecomastia can be caused by hormonal imbalance, medications, diseases, or other factors that disrupt the balance of estrogens and androgens.

The condition affects approximately 30% of males at some point in their lives, with a higher prevalence in adolescents and older males.

Gynecomastia can be classified into three grades, depending on the severity of breast tissue development: Grade 1 (minor breast tissue development), Grade 2 (moderate breast tissue development), and Grade 3 (severe breast tissue development).

The ICD-10-CM code N62 is specific to males, as gynecomastia is a condition that exclusively affects males due to hormonal imbalances.

The code N62 is part of the ICD-10-CM chapter of Endocrine, nutritional and metabolic diseases, which also includes codes for other endocrine disorders, such as diabetes and thyroid disorders.

The diagnosis of gynecomastia is often made through a combination of physical examination, medical history, and laboratory tests, such as hormone level evaluations.

In some cases, gynecomastia may be a symptom of an underlying hormonal disorder, such as hypogonadism or hyperthyroidism.

Treatment of gynecomastia often involves addressing the underlying cause of the hormonal imbalance, such as adjusting medication regimens or treating underlying medical conditions.

In severe cases, surgical treatment options, such as male breast reduction, may be necessary to alleviate symptoms and improve the patient's quality of life.