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Hodgkin lymphoma, unspecified, intra-abdominal lymph nodes
ICD10CM code
#### Name of the Condition
- Hodgkin Lymphoma, Unspecified, Intra-Abdominal Lymph Nodes (ICD-10 Code: C81.93)
#### Summary
- Hodgkin lymphoma is a type of cancer that originates from a specific type of white blood cells known as lymphocytes. It particularly affects the lymph nodes located within the abdominal cavity. This form is called "unspecified" when there is no specific histological classification available.
#### Causes
- The exact cause of Hodgkin lymphoma is not entirely understood, but it is thought to involve a combination of genetic predispositions and environmental factors. Associations with certain viral infections like the Epstein-Barr virus have been observed.
#### Risk Factors
- Risk factors include having a family history of lymphoma, being in a particular age group (especially between 15-30 or over 55), male gender, and a history of infectious mononucleosis.
#### Symptoms
- Common symptoms may include painless swelling of lymph nodes, especially in the abdomen, unexplained weight loss, fever, night sweats, and fatigue.
#### Diagnosis
- Diagnosis is typically made through a combination of physical examinations, imaging techniques like CT or PET scans, and a biopsy of the lymph node tissue to search for the presence of Reed-Sternberg cells characteristic of Hodgkin lymphoma.
#### Treatment Options
- Available treatments include chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and, in some cases, stem cell transplantation. The choice depends on the stage of the disease and the patient's overall health. These treatments aim to destroy cancerous cells and induce remission.
#### Prognosis and Follow-Up
- Hodgkin lymphoma has a relatively favorable prognosis, particularly if diagnosed early. Regular follow-ups with healthcare providers are essential to monitor the patient's response to treatment and detect any recurrence early.
#### Complications
- Potential complications, if untreated, include severe infection due to a weakened immune system, spread of cancer to other organs, and side effects from aggressive treatments such as secondary cancers or heart disease.
#### Lifestyle & Prevention
- While there's no sure way to prevent Hodgkin lymphoma, maintaining a healthy lifestyle with a balanced diet and regular exercise may support overall health. Avoiding known risk factors like tobacco use can also be beneficial.
#### When to Seek Professional Help
- Seek medical attention if experiencing persistent swollen lymph nodes, unexplained weight loss, or recurrent fevers. Early detection is crucial for a more favorable outcome.
#### Additional Resources
- The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society (www.lls.org)
- American Cancer Society (www.cancer.org)
- Lymphoma Research Foundation (www.lymphoma.org)
#### Tips for Medical Coders
- Ensure clear documentation of the location and unspecified nature of the lymphoma in the abdominal lymph nodes.
- Double-check for correct histological documentation, as this impacts specific coding.
- Be aware that missing specificity can lead to broader, less accurate coding, so always verify with clinical documentation.