Name of the Condition

• Malignant neoplasm of larynx, unspecified
• Laryngeal cancer, larynx cancer

Summary

Malignant neoplasm of the larynx refers to a type of cancer that occurs in the tissues of the larynx, or voice box, which is located in the throat. "Unspecified" indicates that the exact part of the larynx affected has not been defined.

Causes

The primary causes of laryngeal cancer include smoking tobacco and heavy alcohol consumption. Other factors may also contribute, such as exposure to certain chemicals, human papillomavirus (HPV) infection, and possible genetic predisposition.

Risk Factors

• Tobacco use (cigarettes, cigars, pipes)
• Excessive alcohol consumption
• Age (most common in people over 55)
• Male gender
• Exposure to asbestos or other toxic substances
• Family history of laryngeal cancer
• Poor nutrition
• HPV infection

Symptoms

• Persistent sore throat or cough
• Hoarseness or voice changes
• Difficulty swallowing
• Ear pain
• Unintended weight loss
• A lump or mass in the neck

Diagnosis

• Physical examination by a healthcare provider
• Laryngoscopy to view the throat and larynx
• Biopsy to obtain tissue samples
• Imaging tests such as CT scans, MRI, or PET scans to determine the spread of cancer

Treatment Options

• Surgery to remove the tumor or part of the larynx
• Radiation therapy to destroy cancer cells
• Chemotherapy to target and kill cancer cells
• Targeted therapy for specific genetic signals involved in cancer growth

Each treatment varies in effectiveness depending on the cancer's stage and spread, as well as the patient's overall health.

Prognosis and Follow-Up

• Prognosis depends on the cancer stage at diagnosis and how well it responds to treatment.
• Early-stage cancer has a higher potential for successful treatment.
• Regular follow-ups and monitoring are crucial for detecting any recurrence early.

Complications

• Spread of cancer to other parts of the body (metastasis)
• Breathing difficulties
• Swallowing problems leading to nutritional issues
• Voice changes or loss

Lifestyle & Prevention

• Quit smoking and avoid tobacco products
• Limit alcohol consumption
• Maintain a healthy diet rich in fruits and vegetables
• Protect against HPV infection by considering vaccination
• Regular check-ups for those at high risk

When to Seek Professional Help

Seek medical attention if you experience persistent hoarseness, unexplained throat pain, difficulty swallowing, or a lump in the neck lasting more than a few weeks.

Additional Resources

• American Cancer Society (cancer.org)
• National Cancer Institute (cancer.gov)
• Head and Neck Cancer Alliance (headandneck.org)

Tips for Medical Coders

• Ensure accurate documentation of the affected site when possible.
• Cross-reference patient records for more specific information if "unspecified" is used frequently.
• Avoid coding errors by double-checking the ICD code with the physician's notes describing the location and extent of the cancer.