Name of the Condition

• Malignant neoplasm of sigmoid colon
• Commonly referred to as sigmoid colon cancer or colorectal cancer in the sigmoid region.

Summary

• Malignant neoplasm of the sigmoid colon is a type of cancer that occurs in the final part of the large intestine. This condition involves the abnormal and uncontrolled growth of cells in the sigmoid colon, which can potentially spread to other parts of the body if not treated early.

Causes

• The exact cause of sigmoid colon cancer is not clear, but it is believed to result from genetic mutations in the DNA of cells in the colon.
• Environmental and lifestyle factors, such as a diet high in red and processed meats, obesity, smoking, and heavy alcohol use, may contribute to the development of this cancer.

Risk Factors

• Age: Most cases occur in individuals over 50.
• Family history of colorectal cancer or polyps.
• Personal history of inflammatory bowel disease.
• Genetic conditions such as familial adenomatous polyposis or Lynch syndrome.
• Sedentary lifestyle.

Symptoms

• Persistent changes in bowel habits, including diarrhea or constipation.
• Blood in stool or rectal bleeding.
• Abdominal pain or cramping.
• Unexplained weight loss.
• Fatigue or weakness.

Diagnosis

• Colonoscopy with biopsy to examine the colon and obtain tissue samples.
• Imaging tests such as CT scans or MRI to assess the spread.
• Blood tests, including carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) levels, to help evaluate the extent of the cancer.

Treatment Options

• Surgery: The primary treatment, often involving the removal of the affected section of the colon (colectomy).
• Chemotherapy: May be used to kill remaining cancer cells and reduce the risk of recurrence.
• Radiation therapy: Sometimes used in conjunction with surgery and chemotherapy to target cancer cells.
• Targeted therapies: Drugs that specifically target cancer cell pathways.

Prognosis and Follow-Up

• Early-stage detection significantly improves prognosis, with many patients achieving a cure after treatment.
• Regular follow-up and monitoring are crucial to manage potential recurrence, involving surveillance colonoscopies and periodic imaging.

Complications

• If left untreated, sigmoid colon cancer can spread to other body parts (metastasis), often impacting the liver and lungs.
• Intestinal obstruction or perforation may occur, posing life-threatening risks.

Lifestyle & Prevention

• Adopt a healthy diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and fiber.
• Engage in regular physical activity.
• Avoid smoking and limit alcohol consumption.
• Consider routine screening, especially if you have a family history or are over 50.

When to Seek Professional Help

• Seek immediate medical attention for any significant changes in bowel habits or unexplained bleeding.
• Early consultation is crucial if experiencing persistent abdominal discomfort or unexplained weight loss.

Additional Resources

• American Cancer Society (cancer.org)
• Colorectal Cancer Alliance (ccalliance.org)
• National Cancer Institute (cancer.gov)

Tips for Medical Coders

• Ensure accurate coding by verifying the specific location of the tumor within the sigmoid colon.
• Avoid common errors by distinguishing sigmoid colon cancer from other colorectal cancers, as each has a distinct ICD code.
• Double-check for any additional diagnoses or complications that may need extra coding.