Anaplstc lg cell lymph, ALK-neg, nodes of axla and upr limb

This code signifies a diagnosis of anaplastic large cell lymphoma (ALCL) that tests negative for anaplastic lymphoma kinase (ALK) gene rearrangements. Specifically, the lymphoma is located in the lymph nodes of the axilla and/or upper limb. ALK-negative ALCL is a distinct subtype with different clinical behavior and treatment responses compared to ALK-positive ALCL.

Use this code when diagnostic pathology reports confirm ALK-negative anaplastic large cell lymphoma, and imaging or biopsy definitively identifies involvement of lymph nodes in the axillary region or upper extremities. Documentation should clearly state the ALK status and the specific anatomical location of the affected lymph nodes.

• Ensure the pathology report explicitly states "ALK-negative" to differentiate from ALK-positive ALCL.
• Verify the specific lymph node involvement is limited to the axilla and/or upper limb; other sites require different codes.
• Do not confuse with other non-Hodgkin lymphomas; ALCL has specific morphological and immunophenotypic features.