Name of the Condition

• Mesothelioma of pleura, Pleural mesothelioma

Summary

• Mesothelioma of pleura is a rare and aggressive cancer that develops in the thin layer of tissue surrounding the lungs, known as the pleura. It is primarily associated with exposure to asbestos fibers.

Causes

• The primary cause of pleural mesothelioma is long-term exposure to asbestos, a group of minerals used in construction and various industries.

Risk Factors

• Occupational exposure to asbestos (e.g., construction workers, shipyard workers).
• Living with someone who works with asbestos.
• Older age, as mesothelioma symptoms can take decades to manifest.
• Male gender, due to higher rates of occupational asbestos exposure in historically male-dominated industries.

Symptoms

• Shortness of breath.
• Persistent cough.
• Chest pain or discomfort.
• Unexplained weight loss.
• Fatigue and general discomfort.

Diagnosis

• Imaging tests: Chest X-rays, CT scans, or MRIs to identify abnormalities.
• Biopsy: Sampling pleural tissue for cancer cells.
• Blood tests: To detect biomarkers associated with mesothelioma.

Treatment Options

• Surgery: To remove tumors or reduce fluid around the lungs.
• Chemotherapy: To kill or slow the growth of cancer cells.
• Radiation therapy: To target and destroy cancer cells.
• Immunotherapy: To boost the immune system's natural ability to fight cancer.

Prognosis and Follow-Up

• Prognosis varies, but mesothelioma generally has a poor outlook due to its aggressive nature.
• Regular follow-ups and monitoring are essential for managing symptoms and slowing disease progression.

Complications

• Pleural effusion: Accumulation of fluid in the pleura, causing breathing difficulties.
• Metastasis: Spread of cancer to other parts of the body.
• Respiratory failure due to tumor growth.

Lifestyle & Prevention

• Avoiding exposure to asbestos is the most effective preventive measure.
• Use protective gear if working in environments with asbestos.
• Regular health check-ups if previously exposed to asbestos.

When to Seek Professional Help

• Persistent respiratory symptoms, such as chest pain or difficulty breathing, warrant immediate medical attention.
• Sudden or severe unexplained symptoms should be assessed promptly.

Additional Resources

• The Mesothelioma Applied Research Foundation (curemeso.org).
• American Cancer Society.

Tips for Medical Coders

• Ensure to code for exposure to asbestos if documented, using Z77.090.
• Verify the site and laterality of the mesothelioma before coding.
• Double-check that the condition is coded as C45.0 for pleural mesothelioma specifically.