In the case of anemia due to a neoplasm, which code is listed first?

In coding scenarios involving anemia due to a neoplasm, the correct coding practice dictates that the malignancy is listed first. This is because the ICD-10-CM coding guidelines prioritize the underlying condition that contributes to secondary complications. In this situation, the neoplasm (malignancy) is the primary diagnosis that is responsible for the patient's anemia.

The rationale behind prioritizing the malignancy is that it establishes the clinical context for the anemia. By addressing the underlying cause first, it accurately reflects the patient's condition and can guide appropriate treatment pathways. This coding approach also adheres to the conventions and instructions provided in the ICD-10-CM guidelines, which emphasize the importance of representing the patient’s primary medical issue accurately in the coding hierarchy. Therefore, prioritizing the malignancy encapsulates the complexity and the relationships between the conditions effectively.