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Malignant neoplasm of peritoneum, unspecified
ICD10CM code
Name of the Condition
- Malignant neoplasm of peritoneum, unspecified
- Also known as: Peritoneal cancer, Peritoneal carcinomatosis
Summary
- Malignant neoplasm of the peritoneum refers to cancer that arises in the peritoneum, the thin layer of tissue lining the abdomen and covering most of the abdominal organs. This type of cancer is rare and can be primary or secondary, meaning it either originates in the peritoneum or spreads there from another location.
Causes
- Often linked to the spread (metastasis) from other cancers such as ovarian, colorectal, or gastric tumors. Occasionally, it can develop as primary peritoneal cancer.
- Exact causes remain largely unknown but may involve genetic mutations or environmental factors.
Risk Factors
- Risk increases with age.
- A family history of certain cancers may elevate risk.
- In women, a history of BRCA1 or BRCA2 genetic mutations that are linked to ovarian cancer.
Symptoms
- Symptoms might include abdominal pain or swelling, unexplained weight loss, nausea, and changes in bowel habits.
- Ascites, or fluid buildup in the abdomen, is common.
Diagnosis
- Diagnosed through imaging tests such as CT or MRI scans, ultrasound, and sometimes PET scans.
- A biopsy is typically performed to obtain a tissue sample for histological analysis.
- Blood tests may include tumor markers, such as CA-125.
Treatment Options
- Treatment typically includes surgery to remove as much of the tumor as possible (cytoreductive surgery).
- Chemotherapy is often used, either systemically or directly into the peritoneal cavity (intraperitoneal chemotherapy).
- Palliative care to manage symptoms and improve quality of life.
Prognosis and Follow-Up
- Prognosis depends on factors such as the extent of disease spread and response to treatment.
- Regular follow-ups with imaging and blood tests are crucial to monitor for recurrence or progression.
Complications
- Potential complications include bowel obstruction, infection, and significant pain, especially if untreated.
- Cancer recurrence is possible, requiring continuous monitoring.
Lifestyle & Prevention
- While prevention of primary peritoneal cancer is challenging due to its rarity and unclear etiology, maintaining a healthy lifestyle and regular medical check-ups may help early detection.
- Genetic counseling and testing for those with a family history of hereditary cancer syndromes may be advised.
When to Seek Professional Help
- Seek medical attention for persistent abdominal pain, unexplained weight loss, or any significant changes in bowel habits.
- Prompt consultation is recommended if experiencing severe abdominal swelling or ascites.
Additional Resources
Tips for Medical Coders
- Ensure the specificity of coding by confirming whether the neoplasm is primary or secondary.
- Avoid coding errors by verifying if the condition is specified as malignant and whether it’s the primary location of the tumor.
- Cross-reference with related codes for metastatic sites if applicable.