Name of the Condition

• Malignant Neoplasm of Spinal Cord
• Also known as Spinal Cord Cancer or Spinal Cancer

Summary

Malignant neoplasm of the spinal cord refers to a cancerous growth within the spinal cord itself. This rare condition can cause significant neurological symptoms and requires specialized medical attention.

Causes

The exact cause of malignant neoplasms in the spinal cord is not well understood. Potential contributors include genetic mutations and a history of cancer elsewhere in the body that metastasizes to the spinal cord.

Risk Factors

• Previous history of cancer, particularly in regions such as lung, breast, or prostate.
• Genetic predispositions or hereditary cancer syndromes.
• Exposure to certain carcinogens or radiation.

Symptoms

• Back or neck pain
• Muscle weakness or paralysis
• Numbness or tingling sensations
• Difficulty walking
• Loss of bowel or bladder control

Diagnosis

• Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) for detailed images of the spinal cord and surrounding structures.
• CT scans and X-rays for assessing bone involvement.
• Biopsy to determine the type and grade of the tumor.

Treatment Options

• Surgery to remove as much of the tumor as possible.
• Radiation therapy to target and destroy cancer cells.
• Chemotherapy for targeting cancer cells, particularly if the cancer is widespread.
• Corticosteroids to reduce swelling and inflammation around the spine.

Prognosis and Follow-Up

The prognosis varies depending on the tumor type, size, location, and response to treatment. Regular follow-up is crucial to monitor for tumor recurrence and manage ongoing neurological symptoms.

Complications

• Permanent nerve damage leading to lasting motor or sensory issues.
• Spread of cancer to other parts of the brain or spine.
• Secondary problems from treatment, including infection or post-surgical complications.

Lifestyle & Prevention

• Maintaining a healthy diet and exercise routine to support overall health.
• Avoiding known carcinogens, such as tobacco and excessive alcohol.
• Regular medical exams for those with a history of cancer, enabling early detection.

When to Seek Professional Help

Seek immediate medical attention if experiencing new or worsening symptoms such as severe back pain, sudden numbness, or difficulty controlling bodily functions.

Additional Resources

• American Cancer Society (cancer.org)
• National Cancer Institute (cancer.gov)
• Brain Tumor Foundation (braintumor.org)

Tips for Medical Coders

• Ensure to specify C72.0 for primary malignant neoplasms of the spinal cord.
• Be vigilant about proper code selection when differentiating primary from metastatic spinal tumors.
• Confirm details from clinical documentation to ensure accurate staging and coding.