Short answer · Medically reviewed summary · Last updated: 2026-05-08
Juvenile Pilocytic Astrocytoma is primarily classified under ICD-10 code D43.1 (Neoplasm of uncertain behavior of brain, supratentorial) or D43.2 (Neoplasm of uncertain behavior of brain, unspecified), while the legacy ICD-9 code is 239.6 (Neoplasm of unspecified nature, brain). These codes are used for administrative and insurance purposes to document this slow-growing, typically benign World Health Organization (WHO) grade 1 tumor. What is the clinical nature of Juvenile Pilocytic Astrocytoma? Juvenile Pilocytic Astrocytoma is the most common primary brain tumor in children, accounting for approximately 15-20% of all pediatric brain tumors.
ICD10 code of Juvenile Pilocytic Astrocytoma and ICD9 code
ICD-10 and ICD-9 codes for Juvenile Pilocytic Astrocytoma, with classification details for clinicians, coders and patients.
Juvenile Pilocytic Astrocytoma is primarily classified under ICD-10 code D43.1 (Neoplasm of uncertain behavior of brain, supratentorial) or D43.2 (Neoplasm of uncertain behavior of brain, unspecified), while the legacy ICD-9 code is 239.6 (Neoplasm of unspecified nature, brain). These codes are used for administrative and insurance purposes to document this slow-growing, typically benign World Health Organization (WHO) grade 1 tumor.
What is the clinical nature of Juvenile Pilocytic Astrocytoma?
Juvenile Pilocytic Astrocytoma is the most common primary brain tumor in children, accounting for approximately 15-20% of all pediatric brain tumors. Unlike more aggressive malignancies, a Juvenile Pilocytic Astrocytoma is characterized by its slow growth rate and well-defined borders, often occurring in the cerebellum, optic pathways, or hypothalamus. For our 13 community members at DiseaseMaps.org, understanding that this is a WHO grade 1 lesion is often a critical first step in navigating their prognosis and treatment journey.
How is Juvenile Pilocytic Astrocytoma diagnosed and coded?
Diagnosis of Juvenile Pilocytic Astrocytoma typically involves magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) followed by histopathological analysis after a biopsy or resection. Clinicians use the aforementioned ICD-10 codes to track the tumor's location and status. While the codes provide a standardized language for healthcare systems, they do not fully capture the clinical complexity of a Juvenile Pilocytic Astrocytoma, which requires a multidisciplinary approach involving neuro-oncology, neurosurgery, and neurology.
Key facts about Juvenile Pilocytic Astrocytoma
- WHO Grade: 1 (Benign).
- Common Locations: Cerebellum (most common), brainstem, optic chiasm, and hypothalamus.
- Genetic Associations: Often associated with BRAF gene alterations, specifically the KIAA1549-BRAF fusion.
- Age of Onset: Most frequently diagnosed in the first two decades of life.
Next steps
- Consult with a pediatric neuro-oncologist to discuss long-term surveillance imaging schedules.
- Connect with the DiseaseMaps.org community to share experiences with 12 other individuals navigating a Juvenile Pilocytic Astrocytoma diagnosis.
- Request genetic counseling to understand if your specific case of Juvenile Pilocytic Astrocytoma is associated with underlying conditions like Neurofibromatosis Type 1 (NF1).
Medical disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment; always seek the guidance of your physician regarding any medical condition.
References
- Orphanet: Pilocytic Astrocytoma (ORPHA:96071)
- NIH GARD: Pilocytic Astrocytoma (GARD: 12248)
- OMIM: Astrocytoma, Pilocytic (Entry #137800)
- World Health Organization (WHO) Classification of Tumours of the Central Nervous System
