Name of the Condition

• Malignant Neoplasm of Cervix Uteri, Unspecified
• Also known as Cervical Cancer, unspecified type

Summary

• This condition refers to a type of cancer that occurs when malignant cells form in the tissues of the cervix – the lower, narrow end of the uterus. The term "unspecified" indicates that further clarification about the type or cell origin of the cancer is lacking.

Causes

• The primary cause of cervical cancer is persistent infection with high-risk strains of the human papillomavirus (HPV). However, not every HPV infection leads to cervical cancer, suggesting that other genetic or environmental factors also play a role.

Risk Factors

• Multiple sexual partners or early sexual activity
• Smoking
• A weakened immune system (e.g., from HIV infection)
• Long-term use of oral contraceptives
• Having many children
• Exposure to diethylstilbestrol (DES) in utero

Symptoms

• Early stages might have no symptoms. As the cancer progresses, symptoms may include:
  • Abnormal vaginal bleeding or discharge
  • Pain during intercourse
  • Pelvic pain

Diagnosis

• Pap smear test and HPV DNA test for screening
• Colposcopy and biopsy for detailed examination if abnormalities are detected
• Imaging tests such as CT, MRI, or PET scans to determine the extent of cancer

Treatment Options

• Treatments vary based on the stage and other factors:
  • Surgery (e.g., hysterectomy) to remove cancerous tissue
  • Radiation therapy to destroy cancer cells
  • Chemotherapy to kill or stop the growth of cancer cells
• Each treatment aims to remove, destroy, or control cancer cells and to preserve fertility if desired and feasible.

Prognosis and Follow-Up

• Early detection often leads to a favorable outcome; regular screening significantly increases survival rates.
• Patients require regular follow-up visits to monitor for signs of recurrence or to manage treatment side effects.

Complications

• Possible complications include metastasis to other parts of the body, affecting various organs.
• Treatment-related complications, such as fertility issues, urinary and digestive system problems

Lifestyle & Prevention

• HPV vaccination can prevent the majority of cervical cancer cases.
• Regular Pap smear screenings to detect precancerous changes early.
• Avoidance of smoking and safe sexual practices (e.g., using condoms, limiting the number of sexual partners) can reduce risk.

When to Seek Professional Help

• Seek immediate medical attention for unusual vaginal bleeding, persistent pelvic pain, or any significant changes in menstrual cycles.

Additional Resources

• American Cancer Society (ACS): www.cancer.org
• National Cancer Institute (NCI): www.cancer.gov
• International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC): www.iarc.fr

Tips for Medical Coders

• Ensure precise coding by confirming the designation "unspecified" due to lack of detail on the cancer type.
• Common errors include using codes for specific types of cervical cancer without sufficient clinical details. Always verify with the clinical documentation.