How does the ICD-10-CM categorize hyperplasia?

Hyperplasia is categorized in ICD-10-CM as a nonessential modifier. This classification indicates that when hyperplasia is noted in a diagnosis, it should not be the primary focus of the coding process. Instead, it describes the type of condition present but does not represent a distinct condition that requires separate coding on its own.

Nonessential modifiers are used in the coding system to provide additional information about a diagnosis without changing the code's primary meaning. They serve to clarify details but do not alter the fundamental nature of the coded condition. For example, if a diagnosis includes hyperplasia, the primary code would still reflect the underlying condition, such as a neoplasm or other disease, while hyperplasia serves as an additional descriptor that provides context.

This differs from essential modifiers, which are necessary for accurately coding a condition, and from secondary diagnoses that indicate conditions that are not the primary condition being treated but still require attention and coding. The primary condition classification would indicate something that is core to the patient's diagnosis and treatment plan, which hyperplasia does not meet.