Malignant Neoplasm of Cerebrum, Except Lobes and Ventricles (C71.0)

Name of the Condition

• Common name(s): Brain cancer (general), Cerebral malignant tumor
• Medical term: Malignant neoplasm of the cerebrum

Summary

Malignant neoplasm of the cerebrum, except lobes and ventricles, refers to cancerous growths located in the brain's central part, specifically the cerebrum but not within the distinct lobes or ventricular system. This condition can disrupt critical brain functions due to the presence of cancer cells.

Causes

The exact cause of this type of brain cancer is often unknown. However, potential factors include genetic mutations, prior radiation exposure, and other unidentified environmental influences.

Risk Factors

• Family history of brain tumors
• Genetic syndromes (e.g., neurofibromatosis)
• Previous exposure to ionizing radiation
• Increased age (common in older adults)

Symptoms

• Headaches
• Seizures
• Cognitive or personality changes
• Nausea or vomiting
• Vision or speech difficulties
• Weakness or numbness in limbs

Diagnosis

• Neurological examination
• Imaging tests such as MRI or CT scans
• Biopsy to examine tumor tissue for malignancy

Treatment Options

• Surgery: To remove as much of the tumor as possible
• Radiation therapy: To target and destroy cancer cells
• Chemotherapy: Uses drugs to kill or slow the growth of cancer cells
• Targeted therapy and immunotherapy: Newer treatments focusing on specific cancer cell characteristics

Prognosis and Follow-Up

The prognosis varies widely depending on the tumor type, size, location, and response to treatment. Regular follow-up with MRI imaging and neurological assessments is crucial for monitoring the condition and making treatment adjustments as needed.

Complications

• Neurological deficits
• Increased intracranial pressure
• Significant impact on daily living and quality of life
• Potential spread to other brain or spinal areas

Lifestyle & Prevention

• Currently, no specific lifestyle changes are proven to prevent this condition.
• General health maintenance, such as a balanced diet and regular exercise, can support overall well-being.

When to Seek Professional Help

Seek immediate medical attention if you experience sudden, severe headaches, seizures, or noticeable changes in neurological functions such as speech or vision.

Additional Resources

• American Brain Tumor Association: www.abta.org
• National Brain Tumor Society: www.braintumor.org
• Mayo Clinic: Brain tumor resources

Tips for Medical Coders

• Verify the specific location of the tumor to ensure accurate coding under C71.0, distinguishing it from other brain tumor sites.
• Confirm the malignancy status, as benign neoplasms will have different codes.
• Be attentive to documentation that specifies recurrence or treatment-resistant cases, which might impact coding or billing procedures.