Name of the Condition

• Malignant neoplasm of the body of the pancreas, also known as pancreatic cancer (body of pancreas).

Summary

• This condition refers to cancer that develops in the body of the pancreas, which is part of the digestive system that aids in digestion and regulating blood sugar.

Causes

• The exact cause is often unknown, but genetic mutations in pancreatic cells play a significant role.
• Other factors can include family history, diabetes, chronic pancreatitis, and lifestyle factors such as smoking and obesity.

Risk Factors

• Age (common in older adults)
• Smoking
• Long-standing diabetes
• Chronic pancreatitis
• Family history of genetic syndromes, such as BRCA2 mutation and Lynch syndrome
• Obesity

Symptoms

• Jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes)
• Abdominal pain radiating to the back
• Weight loss
• Loss of appetite
• New onset diabetes or changes in existing diabetes
• Fatigue

Diagnosis

• Imaging tests such as CT scans, MRI, or endoscopic ultrasound
• Blood tests to check for tumor markers (e.g., CA 19-9)
• Biopsy to analyze pancreatic tissue for cancer cells

Treatment Options

• Surgery (e.g., Whipple procedure) to remove the tumor.
• Chemotherapy to kill cancer cells or shrink tumors.
• Radiation therapy to attack cancerous tissue.
• Targeted therapy based on specific characteristics of cancer cells.
• Each treatment aims to remove or shrink the tumor, alleviate symptoms, and improve quality of life.

Prognosis and Follow-Up

• Prognosis depends on the cancer stage at diagnosis; early detection generally leads to a better outcome.
• Regular follow-up is crucial to monitor for recurrence or manage ongoing symptoms.

Complications

• Metastasis to other parts of the body
• Diabetes due to loss of pancreatic function
• Malnutrition or weight loss from digestive insufficiency

Lifestyle & Prevention

• Maintaining a healthy diet and regular exercise routine
• Avoiding smoking and limiting alcohol intake
• Regular screening for those with a family history or genetic predisposition

When to Seek Professional Help

• Persistent jaundice or unexplained weight loss
• Severe abdominal pain radiating to the back
• Symptoms of new-onset diabetes in adults, particularly in the presence of risk factors

Additional Resources

• American Cancer Society website
• Pancreatic Cancer Action Network website
• National Cancer Institute website

Tips for Medical Coders

• Verify the specific location of the neoplasm within the pancreas for accurate coding.
• Be aware of additional codes needed for complications like diabetes or jaundice caused by the tumor.
• Avoid confusion with benign pancreatic neoplasms or neoplasms located in other parts of the pancreas.