ICD-10-CM codes that indicate laterality specify whether the condition occurs _____.

The correct answer indicates that ICD-10-CM codes that specify laterality provide critical information regarding which side of the body is affected by a condition. These codes are designed to be specific about whether the condition occurs on the left side, the right side, or if it affects both sides (bilaterally). This specificity is essential for accurate diagnosis, treatment, and billing purposes in medical coding, as it impacts clinical management and ensures that the patient's medical record reflects the true nature of their health condition.

By using these detailed codes, healthcare providers can communicate effectively about the presentation of the condition and monitor any changes in the patient's condition over time. Options that suggest unilaterality only, different locations, or consistent occurrences on both sides do not fully encapsulate the comprehensive nature of laterality as intended in the coding system.