Encntr screen for malignant neoplasm of small intestine

This code signifies a patient's visit for a routine screening specifically aimed at detecting early signs of cancer in the small intestine. It indicates that the patient is asymptomatic and the encounter is preventative, not diagnostic for a suspected malignancy.

Apply this code when a patient presents for a scheduled screening procedure, such as a capsule endoscopy or enteroscopy, with the primary purpose of early detection of small intestine cancer. This is appropriate for individuals with risk factors or those undergoing general cancer screening protocols without current symptoms.

• Always sequence this code as the primary diagnosis when the sole reason for the encounter is screening.
• Do not use this code if the patient has symptoms suggestive of small intestine cancer; instead, use codes for signs/symptoms or definitive diagnoses.
• Ensure the documentation clearly supports a screening encounter, not a diagnostic workup for a suspected condition.