LOINC Code 21901-4: Distant metastases.pathology [Class] Cancer
21901-4 is a LOINC code used to identify Distant metastases.pathology [Class] Cancer in laboratory and clinical observation data. You may see this code in lab systems, lab reports, EHR exports, interoperability feeds, or other structured clinical data exchanges. LOINC codes identify tests, measurements, observations, survey items, and clinical questions in a standardized way. It is associated with the component Distant metastases.pathology. It is commonly used with the system or sample type Cancer.XXX.
What is this code?
LOINC codes identify tests, measurements, observations, survey items, and clinical questions in a standardized way. It is associated with the component Distant metastases.pathology. It is commonly used with the system or sample type Cancer.XXX.
When is it used?
- Used in lab systems, EHRs, and clinical data exchange.
- May identify a test, observation, survey item, or clinical document request rather than a diagnosis.
- Status: ACTIVE
What it does not mean
- The code identifies the observation or test, not the actual result.
Key facts
- Distant metastases.pathology [Class] Cancer
- Distant metastases.pathology
- Detailed site-specific codes for the pathologic metastases (M) as defined by AJCC and recorded by the physician. Pathologic, clinical, and other stage data are given three separate areas in the NAACCR Data Exchange Record Layout. COC requires that AJCC TNM staging be used in its approved cancer programs. AJCC developed its staging system for evaluating trends in the treatment and control of cancer. This staging is used by physicians to estimate prognosis, to plan treatment, to evaluate new types of therapy, to analyze outcome, to design follow-up strategies, and to assess early detection results... NAACCR Data Standards and Data Dictionary Version 11
- CA; Misc; Miscellaneous; Nominal; Oncology; Other; Path; Point in time; Random; Spec; To be specified in another part of the message; TUMOR REGISTRY(NAACCR); Unspecified
Where you may see this code
You may see this code in lab systems, lab reports, EHR exports, interoperability feeds, or other structured clinical data exchanges.
Common synonyms
Frequently asked questions
About this content
This page is prepared by HealthAssure's clinical team using official coding standards from LOINC. AI tools assist with drafting explanations, which are then reviewed and verified by healthcare professionals for accuracy. This content is for informational purposes and does not replace professional medical advice. Meet our team.