C25.2 Malignant neoplasm of tail of pancreas

ICD10CM code

#### Name of the Condition
- **Malignant Neoplasm of Tail of Pancreas**
- Also known as **Pancreatic Tail Cancer**.

#### Summary
- Malignant neoplasm of the tail of the pancreas refers to cancerous growths found in the tail section of the pancreas. It's a severe condition that can affect the body's ability to produce necessary enzymes and hormones, impacting digestion and glucose regulation.

#### Causes
- While the exact cause is unknown, factors like genetic mutations, chronic inflammation of the pancreas (pancreatitis), and certain genetic syndromes can play a role. Lifestyle factors, such as excessive alcohol intake and smoking, may also contribute.

#### Risk Factors
- Age (more common in older adults), family history of pancreatic cancer, obesity, diabetes, chronic pancreatitis, and smoking are significant risk factors.

#### Symptoms
- Symptoms may include abdominal pain radiating to the back, unexplained weight loss, jaundice, fatigue, indigestion, and changes in stool consistency.

#### Diagnosis
- Diagnosis typically involves imaging tests like CT scans or MRI, endoscopic ultrasound, biopsy, and blood tests to detect tumor markers.

#### Treatment Options
- Treatment may involve surgery (such as distal pancreatectomy), chemotherapy, targeted therapy, and radiation therapy. Surgery aims to remove the tumor, while other treatments focus on killing cancer cells or stopping their growth.

#### Prognosis and Follow-Up
- The prognosis depends on the stage at diagnosis and the patient's overall health. Early detection improves outcomes, but many cases are diagnosed at advanced stages. Regular follow-ups are crucial for monitoring recurrence or managing complications.

#### Complications
- If untreated, complications like diabetes, jaundice, bowel obstruction, severe malnutrition, or metastasis to other organs can occur.

#### Lifestyle & Prevention
- A healthy lifestyle with a balanced diet, regular exercise, avoiding tobacco and limiting alcohol can help reduce risk. Regular screening may be advised for those with a family history or genetic predispositions.

#### When to Seek Professional Help
- Seek immediate medical attention if experiencing persistent abdominal pain, jaundice, or significant unexplained weight loss.

#### Additional Resources
- [American Cancer Society](https://www.cancer.org)
- [Pancreatic Cancer Action Network](https://www.pancan.org)

#### Tips for Medical Coders
- Code accurately by verifying the specific location within the pancreas (tail).
- Ensure that associated conditions or complications are also coded to provide a comprehensive medical history.
- Avoid generalizing as pancreatic cancer without noting the specific site and type of neoplasm.

Medical Policies and Guidelines for Malignant neoplasm of tail of pancreas

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