When coding for a patient with a primary malignancy that is not being treated, how should it be classified?

When coding for a patient with a primary malignancy that is not being treated, classifying it as a personal history of malignancy is appropriate. This categorization reflects that the malignancy was previously diagnosed but is not currently being managed or treated, indicating that the patient is in a state of survival post-diagnosis. The ICD-10-CM guidelines specify that when a patient has a history of a malignancy that has been removed or treated and is no longer active, it should be coded as a personal history rather than active disease. This is significant for documentation and patient management, especially when determining the appropriate follow-up and screening measures, as well as for identifying potential residual effects of past malignancies.

The other options do not correctly describe the situation: recurring conditions pertain to malignancies that have returned after treatment, incidental findings are typically unrelated to the patient's current illness, and complications refer to new issues arising from a condition that complicates the treatment plan. Therefore, personal history of malignancy provides the most accurate representation for the coding scenario.