[The 10th revision of the International Classification of Diseases and its use in pathology practice]

Area of Science:

• Medical Informatics
• Public Health Surveillance
• Epidemiology

Context:

• The International Classification of Diseases (ICD) is a global standard for diagnostic health information.
• Accurate classification is crucial for disease tracking, resource allocation, and epidemiological research.
• Transitioning between ICD versions requires understanding structural and definitional changes.

Purpose:

• To delineate the fundamental structural and terminological differences between the International Classification of Diseases, Tenth Revision (ICD-10) and its predecessor, ICD-9.
• To clarify definitions for the initial cause of death in statistical records.
• To present updated specifications for antenatal, perinatal, neonatal, and infantile mortality, and establish criteria for stillborn and viviparous states.

Summary:

• The study outlines the word-figure structure of ICD-10 and contrasts it with ICD-9.
• It provides definitions for the initial cause of death, crucial for statistical accuracy.
• Key specifications for various mortality categories (antenatal, perinatal, neonatal, infantile) are detailed, alongside criteria for stillborn and viviparous states.
• Information on the International Classification of Tumors and new ICD-10 data on high-lethality diseases are included.

Impact:

• Facilitates a clearer understanding of ICD-10 for researchers and health information professionals.
• Enhances the accuracy and consistency of global health data collection and analysis.
• Supports improved public health strategies through precise disease classification and mortality tracking.