Name of the Condition

• Malignant neoplasm of glottis
• Also known as glottic cancer or cancer of the vocal cords

Summary

• Malignant neoplasm of glottis is a type of cancer that arises from the glottis, the middle part of the larynx where the vocal cords are located. It primarily affects the voice box and can cause significant voice changes, breathing difficulties, and other symptoms.

Causes

• The exact cause is often unknown, but it is associated with mutations in the DNA of glottic cells. Risk factors include lifestyle choices and environmental exposures.

Risk Factors

• Tobacco use (smoking or chewing)
• Excessive alcohol consumption
• Occupational exposure to certain chemicals or substances
• Human papillomavirus (HPV) infection
• Being male and over 40 years old

Symptoms

• Hoarseness or changes in voice
• Persistent cough
• Sore throat or throat discomfort
• Difficulty swallowing
• Ear pain
• Breathing difficulties in advanced stages

Diagnosis

• Laryngoscopy to visually examine the vocal cords
• Biopsy of suspicious tissue
• Imaging tests like CT scans, MRIs, or PET scans to assess the extent of the spread

Treatment Options

• Surgery: Removes the tumor and may include partial or total laryngectomy.
• Radiation therapy: Targets and kills cancer cells in and around the glottis.
• Chemotherapy: Utilized often in conjunction with radiation for advanced cases to destroy cancer cells.
• Targeted therapy: May be applicable depending on specific characteristics of the cancer.

Prognosis and Follow-Up

• Prognosis depends on the stage at diagnosis; early detection generally leads to better outcomes.
• Regular follow-up is crucial for monitoring any recurrence or metastasis of cancer.

Complications

• If untreated, it can lead to obstruction of the airway, metastasis to other body parts, and even death.
• Treatment complications include voice changes, swallowing difficulties, and potential need for tracheostomy.

Lifestyle & Prevention

• Cease smoking and limit alcohol intake.
• Use protective gear to minimize exposure to occupational hazards.
• Routine examinations for high-risk individuals for early detection.

When to Seek Professional Help

• Seek immediate medical attention if experiencing persistent hoarseness, unexplained throat pain, or difficulty breathing/swallowing.

Additional Resources

• American Cancer Society
• National Cancer Institute
• Local support groups for individuals with head and neck cancers

Tips for Medical Coders

• Verify the specific location of the tumor; C32.0 specifically denotes the glottis.
• Take note of laterality or recurrence status, if applicable, which may affect coding.
• Keep updated with the latest ICD coding manuals to avoid errors.