ICD-10 Code D38.2 – Neoplasm of uncertain behavior of pleura (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code D38.2 – Neoplasm of uncertain behavior of pleura
What it is
D38.2 identifies a pleural neoplasm whose behavior is not clearly benign or malignant. Use it when the pathology or clinical record shows an uncertain tumor of the pleura.
Clinical signs
Clinical features vary; refer to documentation. Patients may have imaging or biopsy findings of a pleural mass, thickening, or effusion, but the key point is that the lesion’s behavior remains uncertain.
When to use this code
Use D38.2 when the provider documents an uncertain behavior neoplasm of the pleura, including pathology reports that cannot classify the lesion as benign or malignant. You should also use it when the record specifically names a pleural tumor of uncertain behavior. If the documentation later confirms malignancy or benignity, code the confirmed diagnosis instead.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for clearly malignant pleural tumors or for benign pleural conditions. Check documentation if the lesion is described only as an effusion, inflammation, or metastasis from another site.
Coding tip
Code from the provider’s final wording, and query if the pleural lesion is described without a clear behavior statement.