Name of the Condition

• Malignant neoplasm of thyroid gland
• Also known as thyroid cancer

Summary

Malignant neoplasm of the thyroid gland, commonly referred to as thyroid cancer, is a condition where malignant cells form in the tissues of the thyroid gland, a butterfly-shaped gland located at the base of the neck. It affects the production of hormones crucial for metabolism, growth, and development.

Causes

• Genetic mutations in cells of the thyroid gland
• Exposure to high levels of radiation

Risk Factors

• Family history of thyroid cancer
• Radiation exposure, especially during childhood
• Certain hereditary syndromes such as familial medullary thyroid carcinoma

Symptoms

• A lump or swelling in the neck
• Difficulty swallowing or breathing
• Hoarseness or voice changes
• Persistent coughing

Diagnosis

• Physical examination of the neck
• Blood tests measuring thyroid function
• Imaging studies like ultrasound and CT scans
• Fine-needle aspiration biopsy to examine thyroid tissue

Treatment Options

• Surgery, such as thyroidectomy, to remove part or all of the thyroid
• Radioactive iodine therapy to destroy remaining cancer cells
• External beam radiation therapy
• Chemotherapy for aggressive forms
• Targeted therapy for specific genetic mutations

Prognosis and Follow-Up

• Generally good prognosis when detected early
• Regular follow-ups with blood tests and imaging to monitor recurrence
• Ongoing thyroid hormone replacement therapy if the thyroid is removed

Complications

• Spread of cancer to nearby lymph nodes or other body parts
• Hormonal imbalances if the thyroid gland is removed
• Potential damage to surrounding tissues during surgery

Lifestyle & Prevention

• Limiting exposure to radiation, particularly during childhood
• Regular monitoring for those with a family history
• Maintaining a healthy diet rich in vegetables and fruits

When to Seek Professional Help

• Presence of a persistent lump or swelling in the neck
• Sudden or severe symptoms like difficulty breathing

Additional Resources

• American Thyroid Association (www.thyroid.org)
• Thyroid Cancer Survivors' Association, Inc. (www.thyca.org)

Tips for Medical Coders

• Ensure specificity in coding by noting the type and location of the tumor
• Avoid common errors such as miscoding benign thyroid conditions under malignant neoplasms
• Check patient records for precise details needed for accurate ICD coding