ICD-10 Codes Explained

International Classification of Diseases codes for diagnoses and conditions. Understand what each diagnosis code means on your medical bills.

Showing 50 of 472 ICD-10 codes

I440

Mild delay in electrical signals between the upper and lower chambers of the heart

First-degree atrioventricular block is a condition where there is a slight delay in the electrical signals traveling from the upper chambers (atria) to the lower chambers (ventricles) of the heart. This delay is measured on an electrocardiogram (EKG) and is typically mild. Most people with first-degree AV block have no symptoms and the condition often requires no treatment, though it may indicate underlying heart conditions that need monitoring.

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J310

Chronic rhinitis (long-term inflammation of the nasal passages)

Chronic rhinitis is a condition where the inside of your nose (nasal passages) remains inflamed for an extended period. This ongoing inflammation can cause persistent symptoms like nasal congestion, runny nose, sneezing, and post-nasal drip. Unlike acute rhinitis which is temporary, chronic rhinitis lasts for weeks or months and may be caused by various factors including allergies, irritants, or other underlying conditions.

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I6389

Other type of stroke (cerebral infarction) not specified elsewhere

This code represents a stroke caused by a blocked blood vessel in the brain (cerebral infarction). When brain tissue doesn't receive enough blood and oxygen due to a blockage, the affected brain cells die, which is called an infarction. This particular code is used for strokes that don't fit into other more specific stroke categories. A stroke is a serious medical emergency that can cause lasting effects on movement, speech, thinking, or other brain functions depending on which part of the brain is affected.

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L578

Other skin changes caused by long-term exposure to non-ionizing radiation

This code represents skin changes that develop from chronic (long-term) exposure to non-ionizing radiation sources. Non-ionizing radiation includes ultraviolet light, infrared radiation, microwaves, and radio waves. This code is used when the skin changes don't fit into other more specific categories of radiation-induced skin damage. Examples might include chronic skin changes from prolonged sun exposure, occupational radiation exposure, or medical treatments involving non-ionizing radiation.

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Z8673

Personal history of stroke or mini-stroke (TIA) with no lasting effects

This code indicates that you have a documented medical history of either a transient ischemic attack (TIA, also called a 'mini-stroke') or a cerebral infarction (stroke), but you have recovered without any permanent neurological problems or lasting deficits. A TIA is a temporary blockage of blood flow to part of the brain that typically resolves within minutes to hours. A cerebral infarction is a stroke caused by blocked blood flow to the brain. This code is used when these events occurred in your past but did not leave you with ongoing symptoms or disabilities.

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Z87891

Personal history of nicotine dependence (past tobacco addiction)

This code indicates that you previously had nicotine dependence (addiction to tobacco products like cigarettes, cigars, or chewing tobacco) but are no longer currently dependent. It's used to document your medical history of tobacco addiction, which can be important for healthcare providers to know when assessing your current health risks and providing appropriate care. This code applies whether you quit on your own, used cessation aids, or received treatment to overcome the addiction.

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I119

High blood pressure affecting the heart without heart failure

This code represents hypertensive heart disease without heart failure. This means you have high blood pressure (hypertension) that has affected your heart muscle or structure, but your heart is still pumping effectively and you do not have heart failure. The condition occurs when chronic high blood pressure causes changes to the heart, such as thickening of the heart muscle, but the heart's ability to pump blood remains adequate.

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Z882

Medical record notation indicating a known allergy to sulfonamide medications

This code is used to document in your medical record that you have a known allergy or adverse reaction to sulfonamide medications (also called sulfa drugs). Sulfonamides are a class of antibiotics and other medications that can cause allergic reactions in some people. This code helps healthcare providers know to avoid prescribing sulfa-containing medications to prevent allergic reactions. It's a documentation code rather than a billable diagnosis.

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N390

Urinary tract infection with location not specified

This code indicates a urinary tract infection (UTI) where the specific location within the urinary system has not been identified or specified. A UTI is a bacterial infection that can affect any part of the urinary system including the kidneys, ureters, bladder, or urethra. This particular code is used when the healthcare provider has diagnosed a UTI but has not documented or determined the exact site of the infection.

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Z48810

Follow-up care visit after surgery on eyes, ears, or other sense organs

This code is used when you visit your healthcare provider for routine follow-up care after having surgery on your sense organs (such as your eyes, ears, nose, or related structures). This is not for treating complications, but rather for normal post-surgical care like checking how you're healing, removing stitches, or monitoring your recovery progress. These visits are a standard part of surgical care to ensure you're healing properly.

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Z6830

Body Mass Index (BMI) between 30.0-30.9 in adults

This code indicates that your Body Mass Index (BMI) falls between 30.0 and 30.9. BMI is a measurement that uses your height and weight to determine if you're in a healthy weight range. A BMI in this range (30.0-30.9) is classified as obesity class I according to medical standards. This is a diagnostic code used to document your current BMI status for medical record keeping and may be relevant for health monitoring, treatment planning, or insurance purposes.

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K7460

Liver cirrhosis of unspecified type

This code indicates cirrhosis of the liver where the specific type or cause has not been identified or documented. Cirrhosis is a condition where healthy liver tissue is gradually replaced by scar tissue, which can interfere with the liver's ability to function properly. The liver becomes hardened and may not work as well as it should. This particular code is used when the medical documentation doesn't specify what caused the cirrhosis or what specific type it is.

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I77810

Widening or enlargement of the thoracic aorta (the main artery in the chest)

This code represents thoracic aortic ectasia, which is a condition where the thoracic aorta (the large main artery that carries blood from the heart through the chest) becomes widened or enlarged beyond its normal diameter. The thoracic aorta is the portion of the aorta located in the chest cavity. Ectasia refers to the abnormal stretching or dilation of a blood vessel. This condition falls under diseases of the circulatory system and specifically affects arteries and arterioles.

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E7800

High cholesterol levels in the blood, type not specified

This code indicates that you have pure hypercholesterolemia, which means you have elevated levels of cholesterol in your blood. The 'unspecified' part means that the specific type or cause of your high cholesterol hasn't been determined or documented. Pure hypercholesterolemia refers to having high cholesterol without other lipid abnormalities. High cholesterol can increase your risk of heart disease and stroke if left untreated, but it's a common condition that can often be managed through lifestyle changes and/or medication.

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D251

Non-cancerous tumor in the muscle wall of the uterus

An intramural leiomyoma is a benign (non-cancerous) tumor that grows within the muscle wall of the uterus. These tumors, also commonly called fibroids, develop from the smooth muscle tissue of the uterine wall. Intramural fibroids are located within the thick muscular layer of the uterus and are the most common type of uterine fibroid. They can vary in size and may cause symptoms such as heavy menstrual bleeding, pelvic pressure, or pain, though some may cause no symptoms at all.

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N138

Other obstructive and reflux uropathy - blockage or backup of urine in the urinary system

This code represents a condition where there is obstruction (blockage) or reflux (backward flow) of urine somewhere in the urinary system that doesn't fit into other specific categories. This can affect the kidneys, ureters (tubes that carry urine from kidneys to bladder), or other parts of the urinary tract. The obstruction or reflux can prevent normal urine flow, potentially leading to kidney problems if not treated. This is a 'catch-all' code used when the specific type of urinary obstruction or reflux doesn't match other more specific diagnostic codes.

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Z961

Presence of intraocular lens (artificial lens in the eye)

This code indicates that you have an intraocular lens (IOL) implanted in your eye. An intraocular lens is an artificial lens that is surgically placed inside the eye, typically to replace the eye's natural lens. This is most commonly done during cataract surgery when the clouded natural lens is removed and replaced with a clear artificial lens. The presence of an intraocular lens is considered a factor that may influence your health status and contact with health services, which is why it has its own medical code for documentation purposes.

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I480

Paroxysmal atrial fibrillation - irregular heartbeat that comes and goes

Paroxysmal atrial fibrillation is a type of irregular heart rhythm where the upper chambers of your heart (atria) beat irregularly and often rapidly. 'Paroxysmal' means this irregular heartbeat comes and goes - it starts suddenly, lasts for a period of time (usually less than 7 days), and then stops on its own, returning to normal rhythm. During episodes, you may feel your heart racing, fluttering, or skipping beats, and you might experience symptoms like shortness of breath, chest discomfort, or fatigue.

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R109

Unspecified abdominal pain

This code represents stomach or belly pain where the exact location or cause hasn't been specifically identified. It's used when a patient experiences abdominal discomfort, but the healthcare provider hasn't determined the precise area of the abdomen that's causing the pain or the underlying reason for it. This is a common diagnostic code used during the evaluation process when abdominal pain is the main concern but requires further assessment to determine the specific cause.

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Z1231

Screening mammogram appointment for breast cancer detection

This code represents a routine screening mammogram visit specifically for detecting breast cancer in patients without symptoms. This is a preventive healthcare service used to identify potential breast cancer early, before any signs or symptoms appear. The screening is performed on patients who do not currently have breast problems or symptoms.

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Z800

Family history of cancer in digestive organs

This code indicates that you have a family history of malignant cancer (malignant neoplasm) affecting digestive organs such as the stomach, intestines, colon, liver, pancreas, or other parts of the digestive system. This code is used to document important family medical history that may influence your healthcare screening, prevention strategies, and risk assessment. Having this family history doesn't mean you will develop cancer, but it may mean your doctor recommends earlier or more frequent screening tests.

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R052

Subacute cough - a cough that has persisted for several weeks

This code represents a subacute cough, which is a cough that typically lasts between 3-8 weeks. It's longer than an acute cough (which lasts less than 3 weeks) but shorter than a chronic cough (which lasts more than 8 weeks). This type of cough often occurs after respiratory infections or other conditions and may take time to resolve completely. The code falls under the category of symptoms and signs that are documented when the underlying cause may not yet be determined or when the cough itself is the primary concern being addressed.

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I444

A delay in electrical signals in the left side of the heart's conduction system

Left anterior fascicular block is a condition where there is a delay or blockage in the electrical signals that control your heartbeat, specifically in the left anterior fascicle (a branch of the heart's electrical pathway). This affects how electrical impulses travel through the left ventricle of your heart. It's often detected on an electrocardiogram (ECG) and may occur alone or alongside other heart conditions. Many people with this condition have no symptoms and may not require treatment.

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T783XXA

Severe allergic swelling of face, lips, throat, or other body parts - first visit for this condition

Angioneurotic edema, also called angioedema, is a type of allergic reaction that causes deep swelling in the skin and mucous membranes, most commonly affecting the face, lips, eyelids, tongue, and throat. This swelling occurs beneath the surface of the skin and can develop rapidly. The 'initial encounter' designation means this is the first time you're receiving medical care for this particular episode of angioedema. This condition can be caused by allergic reactions to foods, medications, or other substances, and may require immediate medical attention especially if it affects breathing or swallowing.

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J4520

Mild intermittent asthma without complications

This code represents mild intermittent asthma that is uncomplicated, meaning there are no additional health issues or severe symptoms present. Mild intermittent asthma is the least severe form of asthma, where symptoms occur infrequently and don't significantly interfere with daily activities. This classification falls under chronic lower respiratory diseases and indicates that while you have asthma, it's well-controlled and not causing major breathing problems.

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R922

Mammogram results that could not provide a clear or definitive finding

This code indicates that a mammogram (breast X-ray screening) was performed but the results were inconclusive, meaning the radiologist could not make a clear determination from the images. This could be due to various factors such as dense breast tissue, technical issues with the imaging, patient movement, or unclear areas that need further evaluation. An inconclusive mammogram does not mean there is a problem - it simply means additional imaging or follow-up may be needed to get clearer results.

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Z6821

Body Mass Index (BMI) between 21.0 and 21.9 in an adult

This code indicates that your Body Mass Index (BMI) falls within the range of 21.0 to 21.9. BMI is a measurement that uses your height and weight to assess whether you're in a healthy weight range. A BMI in this range is considered within the normal, healthy weight category for adults. This is typically used for documentation purposes in medical records when BMI is relevant to your care or treatment planning.

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R09A2

Foreign body sensation in the throat

This code represents the feeling that there is something stuck in your throat, even when there may not actually be a foreign object present. This sensation can feel like a lump, something caught, or an obstruction in the throat area. It's a symptom that patients describe when they have the uncomfortable feeling that something is lodged in their throat, which may interfere with swallowing or cause discomfort.

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Z9841

History of cataract surgery on the right eye

This code indicates that you have previously had cataract extraction surgery performed on your right eye. A cataract is a clouding of the natural lens in your eye that can cause blurry vision. Cataract extraction is a common surgical procedure where the cloudy lens is removed and typically replaced with an artificial lens implant. This code is used in medical records to document that this surgery has been completed on your right eye, which is important information for future eye care and medical treatments.

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H2512

Age-related clouding of the lens in the left eye (nuclear cataract)

This code represents an age-related nuclear cataract specifically in the left eye. A nuclear cataract is a type of clouding that occurs in the central part (nucleus) of the eye's natural lens. This condition typically develops as part of the normal aging process, causing the lens to become less transparent and potentially affecting vision. The 'nuclear' type refers to the specific location where the clouding occurs - in the center of the lens rather than other areas like the edges or back surface.

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E041

A single, non-cancerous lump or growth in the thyroid gland that does not produce excess hormones

This code represents a single nodule (lump or growth) found in the thyroid gland that is nontoxic, meaning it does not produce excessive amounts of thyroid hormones. The thyroid is a butterfly-shaped gland in your neck that helps regulate metabolism. A single nodule means there is one distinct lump rather than multiple nodules. Most thyroid nodules are benign (non-cancerous) and may not cause symptoms, though they can sometimes be felt as a lump in the neck or seen on imaging studies.

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Z803

Family history of breast cancer

This code indicates that you have a family history of breast cancer, meaning one or more of your blood relatives (such as mother, sister, grandmother, or aunt) has been diagnosed with breast cancer. This information is important for your healthcare providers because having a family history of breast cancer may increase your own risk of developing the disease. Your doctor uses this code to document this family history in your medical records, which helps guide screening recommendations and preventive care decisions. This is not a diagnosis of cancer for you - it's simply documenting your family medical history.

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R920

Small calcium deposits found on breast imaging

This code indicates that tiny calcium deposits called microcalcifications were detected during diagnostic breast imaging (such as mammography). Microcalcifications are small white spots that show up on mammograms and are made of calcium. While most microcalcifications are benign (not cancerous), their pattern, shape, and distribution help doctors determine if further evaluation is needed. This is a diagnostic finding code used to document what was seen on the imaging study.

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N6021

Benign breast condition with fibrous tissue and cyst formation in the right breast

Fibroadenosis is a benign (non-cancerous) breast condition characterized by the development of fibrous tissue and small cysts in the breast. This specific code indicates the condition affects the right breast. It's also known as fibrocystic breast disease or fibrocystic changes. The condition can cause breast tenderness, lumpiness, or pain, particularly before menstrual periods. While benign, it may require monitoring and can sometimes make breast cancer screening more challenging.

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S92912G

Follow-up visit for a broken toe that is healing slower than expected

This code is used for subsequent healthcare visits related to an unspecified fracture (break) of the left toe(s) when the bone is taking longer than normal to heal. The 'unspecified' means the exact type or location of the toe fracture wasn't specifically documented. This is not the code used for the initial injury, but rather for follow-up appointments when delayed healing has been identified.

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H93299

Other abnormal hearing perceptions in an unspecified ear

This code represents unusual or abnormal ways of hearing sounds that don't fit into other specific categories of hearing disorders. It covers various types of altered sound perception, such as hearing sounds differently than normal, experiencing distorted hearing, or other atypical auditory experiences. The code is used when the specific ear affected (left or right) is not documented or specified.

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N6091

Non-cancerous breast tissue changes in the right breast

This code indicates benign (non-cancerous) mammary dysplasia in your right breast. Mammary dysplasia refers to changes in breast tissue that can cause lumps, thickening, or other texture changes. These changes are benign, meaning they are not cancerous and do not increase your risk of breast cancer. The term 'unspecified' means the exact type or nature of the tissue changes wasn't detailed in your medical record, but they have been confirmed as non-harmful. This condition is relatively common and can cause breast tenderness, especially during menstrual cycles. While not dangerous, your doctor may recommend monitoring or follow-up care to track any changes over time.

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R928

Unusual or unclear findings on breast imaging (like mammogram, ultrasound, or MRI)

This code is used when breast imaging tests (such as mammograms, ultrasounds, or MRIs) show findings that are abnormal but don't clearly point to a specific diagnosis. The results may be inconclusive, meaning doctors need more information or additional tests to determine what the findings mean. This doesn't necessarily indicate cancer or a serious condition - it simply means the imaging showed something that requires further evaluation or monitoring to understand better.

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L308

Other specified skin inflammation (dermatitis) not classified elsewhere

This code represents a type of skin inflammation or irritation (dermatitis) that has been specifically identified by your healthcare provider but doesn't fit into the more common categories of dermatitis that have their own specific codes. Dermatitis generally involves red, swollen, and itchy skin that may also have blisters, crusting, or scaling. This particular code is used when the dermatitis has specific characteristics that your doctor can identify, but it's not one of the more common types like eczema, contact dermatitis, or seborrheic dermatitis.

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J984

Other specified lung disorders not classified elsewhere

This code is used for lung conditions that don't fit into other specific categories in the medical coding system. It covers various lung disorders that have been diagnosed but don't match the criteria for more specific lung condition codes. Your doctor would use this code when you have a confirmed lung problem that doesn't fall under common categories like pneumonia, asthma, or COPD.

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D1801

A benign (non-cancerous) blood vessel growth in the skin or tissue just under the skin

A hemangioma is a common, non-cancerous growth made up of blood vessels that appears as a red or purple mark on the skin or in the tissue just beneath the skin surface. These growths are typically harmless and may appear as raised, flat, or slightly bumpy areas. They can vary in size and may be present at birth or develop later. While they are benign tumors, they should be evaluated by a healthcare provider to confirm the diagnosis and determine if any treatment is needed.

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M79675

Pain in the left toe or toes

This code specifically identifies pain located in one or more toes on the left foot. It is used when a patient experiences discomfort, aching, or pain in their left toe(s) without specifying the underlying cause. The pain could be related to various conditions such as injury, inflammation, nerve issues, or other medical problems affecting the toes.

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R197

Diarrhea without a specific underlying cause identified

This code is used when a patient has diarrhea (loose, watery stools occurring more frequently than normal) but the healthcare provider has not identified or specified the exact cause. Diarrhea can result from many different factors including infections, medications, dietary issues, or underlying medical conditions. This code indicates that while diarrhea is present and documented, additional testing or evaluation may be needed to determine the specific cause.

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R112

Nausea with vomiting, cause not specified

This code indicates that a patient is experiencing both nausea (feeling sick to your stomach) and vomiting (throwing up), but the underlying cause has not been determined or specified. This is a symptom-based diagnosis used when the specific reason for the nausea and vomiting is unknown or has not yet been identified through medical evaluation.

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N6001

A single, fluid-filled sac (cyst) in the right breast

This code indicates the presence of a solitary cyst in the right breast. A breast cyst is a fluid-filled sac that develops within breast tissue. The term 'solitary' means there is only one cyst present, as opposed to multiple cysts. Breast cysts are very common, especially in women between ages 35-50, and are typically benign (non-cancerous). They may feel like a smooth, movable lump and can sometimes cause tenderness or pain, particularly before menstrual periods.

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L2084

A type of eczema caused by allergic reactions from within the body

Intrinsic allergic eczema is a form of atopic dermatitis where the skin becomes inflamed, itchy, and irritated due to internal allergic reactions. Unlike contact eczema that's triggered by external substances touching the skin, this type develops from allergic responses that originate inside the body. It typically causes red, scaly, and itchy patches on the skin that may weep or become crusty. This condition is often chronic and may flare up periodically.

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D62

Anemia caused by recent significant blood loss

Acute posthemorrhagic anemia is a condition where your red blood cell count drops significantly due to recent blood loss. This can happen after surgery, injury, heavy menstrual bleeding, or internal bleeding. The 'acute' means it developed quickly, and 'posthemorrhagic' means it occurred after bleeding. Your body hasn't had time to replace the lost red blood cells yet, which can cause symptoms like fatigue, weakness, pale skin, and shortness of breath.

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Z881

Medical record of allergy to antibiotic medications (other than penicillin)

This code indicates that you have a documented allergy or adverse reaction to certain antibiotic medications, excluding penicillin-type antibiotics. This is an important part of your medical history that healthcare providers use to ensure they prescribe safe medications for you. The code helps medical staff quickly identify that you cannot take certain antibiotics and need alternative treatments when antibiotics are necessary.

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R9230

Abnormal findings on diagnostic imaging of breast

This code indicates that imaging tests of your breast (such as mammography, ultrasound, MRI, or CT scan) showed something unusual or abnormal. This doesn't necessarily mean cancer - abnormal findings can include many things like cysts, benign lumps, dense tissue, calcifications, or other changes that need further evaluation. Your doctor will discuss what was found and may recommend additional tests or follow-up imaging to determine what the abnormal finding means for your health.

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N644

Breast pain or tenderness

Mastodynia is the medical term for breast pain or tenderness. This condition can affect one or both breasts and may feel like aching, burning, tightness, or sharp pain. The pain can be constant or come and go, and may be related to hormonal changes during menstrual cycles, pregnancy, or menopause. It can also be caused by breast cysts, infections, injury, or certain medications. While breast pain is often benign (not dangerous), healthcare providers may recommend imaging studies like MRI to rule out other conditions and determine the underlying cause.

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