Anaplastic large cell lymphoma, ALK-neg, intrathorac nodes

This code identifies a specific subtype of non-Hodgkin lymphoma characterized by large, anaplastic cells that do not express the anaplastic lymphoma kinase (ALK) protein. The diagnosis is further localized to involvement of lymph nodes within the thoracic cavity.

Apply this code when documentation confirms a pathological diagnosis of ALK-negative anaplastic large cell lymphoma affecting intrathoracic lymph nodes. This typically follows biopsy and immunohistochemical staining results.

• Ensure the pathology report explicitly states "ALK-negative" to differentiate from ALK-positive variants.
• Confirm the anatomical site of involvement is specifically "intrathoracic lymph nodes" and not other extranodal sites or lymph nodes elsewhere.
• Do not confuse with other anaplastic large cell lymphoma codes that specify ALK-positive status or different anatomical locations.