Name of the Condition

• Secondary malignant neoplasm of breast
• Also referred to as metastatic breast cancer

Summary

• Secondary malignant neoplasm of the breast is a condition where cancer cells have spread from another part of the body to the breast. It is not primary breast cancer but a metastasis from a different primary site.

Causes

• The spread of cancer cells from other body organs to the breast through the bloodstream or lymphatic system.

Risk Factors

• Prior history of cancer, especially those types more likely to metastasize like melanoma or lung cancer.
• Genetic factors influencing cancer metastasis.
• Advanced stage of the initial primary cancer.

Symptoms

• Lumps or masses in the breast that are different from the primary breast tissue.
• Changes in breast shape or size unrelated to previous surgeries or conditions.
• Pain or tenderness in the breast area.

Diagnosis

• Imaging tests such as mammograms, MRIs, or CT scans.
• Biopsy of breast tissue to identify the type of cancer cells.
• PET scans to locate the primary site of cancer if unknown.

Treatment Options

• Systemic therapies like chemotherapy or hormone therapy to target cancer spread.
• Radiation therapy for local control of breast metastasis.
• Surgery is less common but may be considered in certain situations to relieve symptoms.

Prognosis and Follow-Up

• Prognosis varies significantly based on the primary site and extent of metastasis.
• Regular monitoring through imaging and clinical evaluations to assess treatment efficacy and detect further spread.

Complications

• Breast tissue damage or deformation.
• Impact on quality of life and psychological well-being.
• Further metastasis to other areas of the body.

Lifestyle & Prevention

• Healthy lifestyle choices such as a balanced diet and regular exercise may help manage overall health.
• There is no direct prevention of metastasis to the breast, but maintaining vigilance with regular health checkups can aid early detection.

When to Seek Professional Help

• New breast lumps or changes in the breast in patients with a history of cancer should prompt immediate medical evaluation.

Additional Resources

• American Cancer Society (www.cancer.org)
• National Cancer Institute (www.cancer.gov)
• Breast Cancer Now (www.breastcancernow.org)

Tips for Medical Coders

• Ensure accurate documentation of the primary cancer site alongside C79.81.
• Be cautious with coding secondary neoplasms; the primary site must be identified when possible.
• Avoid confusing with primary breast cancer coding (e.g., C50.-).