C34.31 Malignant neoplasm of lower lobe, right bronchus or lung

ICD10CM code

#### Name of the Condition
- Malignant Neoplasm of Lower Lobe, Right Bronchus or Lung  
- Also known as Lung Cancer in the lower lobe of the right lung.

#### Summary
Lung cancer in the lower lobe of the right lung is a malignant growth of cells in this specific area of the lung. It is a form of lung cancer, which is one of the most common and serious types of cancer.

#### Causes
- Tobacco smoking is the leading cause. 
- Exposure to radon gas, asbestos, and other carcinogens. 
- Genetic predisposition and a history of lung conditions may also play a role.

#### Risk Factors
- Smoking and secondhand smoke exposure.
- Exposure to environmental or occupational carcinogens.
- Family history of lung cancer.
- Older age increases the risk.

#### Symptoms
- Persistent cough or changes in a chronic cough.
- Chest pain or discomfort.
- Shortness of breath.
- Unexplained weight loss and fatigue.
- Recurrent respiratory infections.

#### Diagnosis
- Imaging tests such as chest X-ray, CT scan, and PET scan.
- Sputum cytology to analyze coughed-up phlegm.
- Biopsy to obtain tissue samples for microscopic examination.

#### Treatment Options
- Surgery to remove cancerous tissue if localized.
- Radiation therapy to destroy cancer cells.
- Chemotherapy to target cancer cells systemically.
- Targeted therapy and immunotherapy for specific cancer types or genetic mutations.

#### Prognosis and Follow-Up
- Early detection improves prognosis significantly.
- Regular follow-ups are crucial to monitor for recurrence or complications.
- Survival rates vary based on stage at diagnosis and response to treatment.

#### Complications
- Metastasis to other organs if untreated.
- Respiratory complications and pleural effusion.
- Potential complications from treatment like infections or side effects.

#### Lifestyle & Prevention
- Smoking cessation is crucial for prevention and management.
- Regular exercise and a healthy diet to enhance overall health.
- Avoidance of known carcinogens in occupational settings.

#### When to Seek Professional Help
- Persistent cough or other symptoms lasting more than a few weeks.
- Sudden worsening of respiratory symptoms.
- Symptoms of metastatic spread, like new bone pain or neurological symptoms.

#### Additional Resources
- American Cancer Society: [www.cancer.org](https://www.cancer.org)
- Lung Cancer Foundation: [www.lungcancerfoundation.org](https://www.lungcancerfoundation.org)
- Local support groups and counseling services for patients and families.

#### Tips for Medical Coders
- Ensure specificity in coding, focusing on laterality and lobe location.
- Double-check documentation for precise coding of malignancy.
- Avoid confusion with similar codes by verifying clinical details.

Medical Policies and Guidelines for Malignant neoplasm of lower lobe, right bronchus or lung

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