Short answer · Medically reviewed summary · Last updated: 2026-04-07

The primary ICD-10-CM code for a colloid cyst of the third ventricle is D33.0 (Benign neoplasm of brain, supratentorial), while the corresponding ICD-9-CM code is 225.0. It is important to note that because a colloid cyst is a specific intracranial lesion, these codes are used for billing and classification purposes to represent the location and benign nature of the growth. What is a colloid cyst and where is it located? A colloid cyst is a rare, benign, slow-growing fluid-filled sac that typically develops in the third ventricle of the brain, near the foramen of Monro.

5 people with Colloid cyst have shared their first-person experience on this question at DiseaseMaps.

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ICD10 code of Colloid cyst and ICD9 code

ICD-10 and ICD-9 codes for Colloid cyst, with classification details for clinicians, coders and patients.

ICD9 and ICD10 codes of Colloid cyst

The primary ICD-10-CM code for a colloid cyst of the third ventricle is D33.0 (Benign neoplasm of brain, supratentorial), while the corresponding ICD-9-CM code is 225.0. It is important to note that because a colloid cyst is a specific intracranial lesion, these codes are used for billing and classification purposes to represent the location and benign nature of the growth.



What is a colloid cyst and where is it located?


A colloid cyst is a rare, benign, slow-growing fluid-filled sac that typically develops in the third ventricle of the brain, near the foramen of Monro. While it is technically a benign neoplasm, a colloid cyst can cause significant clinical issues by obstructing the flow of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). This obstruction can lead to hydrocephalus—a buildup of fluid in the brain—which is why even a small colloid cyst requires careful monitoring by neurosurgical teams. With 292 members in the DiseaseMaps community currently navigating this diagnosis, we recognize that the uncertainty regarding size and potential for obstruction is a significant source of anxiety for patients and their families.



How is a colloid cyst diagnosed and classified?


The diagnostic journey for a colloid cyst usually begins with neuroimaging, such as an MRI or CT scan, which clearly identifies the lesion's location and density. From a clinical coding perspective, the classification of a colloid cyst is straightforward, yet the clinical management is highly individualized. Because these cysts are often discovered incidentally, physicians categorize them based on their size and their potential to cause symptoms. The following table outlines the key clinical considerations for a patient diagnosed with this condition:



  • Imaging: MRI is the gold standard for visualizing the internal components of the colloid cyst.

  • Hydrocephalus risk: Monitoring for signs of intracranial pressure, such as sudden headaches or nausea.

  • Surgical intervention: Often indicated if the cyst is large or causing symptomatic obstruction.

  • Observation: Small, asymptomatic cysts may be managed through "watchful waiting" with periodic scans.



Are there specific symptoms associated with a colloid cyst?


Many individuals remain asymptomatic for years; however, when symptoms do occur, they are often related to the intermittent or persistent blockage of CSF. Common presentations include positional headaches, which may change intensity when the patient moves their head, as well as nausea, vomiting, or visual disturbances. If you have been diagnosed with a colloid cyst, it is vital to discuss your specific imaging findings with a neurosurgeon, as the size and location of the cyst relative to the foramen of Monro are the primary predictors of future risk.



How does the medical community approach management?


Management of a colloid cyst is primarily surgical if the lesion becomes symptomatic. Options range from stereotactic aspiration to endoscopic or microsurgical resection. The goal is to remove the cyst while minimizing trauma to the surrounding delicate structures of the brain. Because every case is unique, the decision-making process involves balancing the risks of surgery against the risk of acute obstructive hydrocephalus.



Next steps



  • Consult with a board-certified neurosurgeon who specializes in ventricular or skull-base surgery to review your imaging.

  • Keep a symptom diary, noting any sudden onset of headaches, balance issues, or cognitive changes to share with your medical team.

  • Join the DiseaseMaps.org community to connect with the 292 other members who have shared their experiences with colloid cyst management.

  • Request a copy of your MRI reports and images to maintain a personal medical record for second opinions.



Medical disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and does not constitute professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment; always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions regarding a medical condition.



References



  • NIH Genetic and Rare Diseases Information Center (GARD): Colloid Cyst of the Third Ventricle.

  • Orphanet: Rare diseases database and classification.

  • OMIM (Online Mendelian Inheritance in Man): Clinical summaries on intracranial cysts.

  • PubMed: Current literature on the endoscopic management of third ventricular colloid cysts.

Medical disclaimer: This information does not substitute professional medical advice. Always consult your doctor before making health decisions.
Source: DiseaseMaps.org
6 answers
Don't know what that means

Posted Aug 14, 2017 by Jane Mcneill 2100
The correct answer depends on the circumstances of the surgery. The surgeon may create a burr hole and use a needle to decompress a third ventricular cyst. If the cyst is near the surface of the brain (e.g., it extends above the ventricle), the best code choice is 61156 (Burr hole[s]; with aspiration of hematoma or cyst, intracerebral). When approaching through a burr hole(s) but removing the cyst by stereotactic aspiration, report 61750 (Stereotactic biopsy, aspiration, or excision, including burr hole[s], for intracranial lesion) or 61751 ( with computerized axial tomography and/or magnetic resonance imagery) as appropriate.

The cyst may also be removed via an open procedure with craniectomy. In this case, the correct code is 61516 (Craniectomy, trephination, bone flap craniotomy; for excision or fenestration of cyst, supratentorial).

Posted Aug 14, 2017 by Julia 2733
Both codes are for cerebral cysts

Posted Dec 7, 2017 by Julie 400
742.4 I believe is the best icd9 code for colloid cysts of the brain.

Posted Oct 31, 2018 by Janet 1623
I have done a New York State search on colloid cysts and hydrocephalus, and it is frustrating. I searched on:

Cerebral cyst:
ICD-9: 742.4 - cerebral cyst
ICD-10: Q04.6 - colloid cyst of the third ventricle
G93.0 - brain cyst

Hydrocephalus: often accompanies colloid cysts of the third ventricle, and often listed as a secondary dx
ICD-9: 331.4
ICD-10: G91.8 - other hydrocephalus
G91.9 - hydrocephalus, unspecified.

Posted Oct 13, 2019 by dgustafs 2550

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COLLOID CYST STORIES
Colloid cyst stories
April 2014 I went to my PCP because I was tired all the time.  A previous sleep study said I had sleep apnea but I never had my septum repaired as I was instructed to do.  So he sent me to an ENT to finally have this done.  At the same time I aske...
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My journey began way back in 1986, I had just had a baby and then I began having monster headaches that would knock me off of my feet.  I had two children under the age of 3 and didn't have time to stop for very long.  My headaches subsided after a...
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Diagnosed with a 4 mm Colloid Cyst in June, 2015. In January of 2015 began having severe headaches, confusion, memory problems, mood changes and passing out which eventually brought me to the point of being brought to the ER at which time they did a ...
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I was diagnosed in 2013 with a 8mm colloid cyct due to a ER visit with symptoms of lost memory,vision disturbed,and massive migraine. I'm in wait and watch. It has grown to 9mm, 1 more mm and it will have to be removed via brain surgery. I have numer...
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Diagnosed 2006 with emergency craniotomy 1 week later. Re-growth found in 2009. Yearly MRIs with 'watch & wait' approach. No symptoms at present (in 2016).

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