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Benign neoplasm of other parts of small intestine
ICD10CM code
Name of the Condition
- Benign neoplasm of other parts of the small intestine (ICD-10-CM Code: D13.39)
Summary
- A benign neoplasm of the small intestine is a non-cancerous growth found in the small intestine, which is part of the digestive tract connecting the stomach to the large intestine. These growths are typically not life-threatening but may require medical attention if they cause symptoms or complications.
Causes
- The exact causes of benign neoplasms in the small intestine are not fully understood. They may arise due to abnormal cellular growth in the intestinal lining. Factors like genetics and underlying medical conditions can also contribute to their development.
Risk Factors
- Family history of intestinal growths or polyps.
- Certain genetic disorders, such as familial adenomatous polyposis.
- Age, as the risk may increase with advancing age.
- Diet high in red meat and low in fiber.
Symptoms
- Often asymptomatic, but possible symptoms include abdominal pain, bloating, and changes in bowel habits.
- Bleeding from the intestine leading to anemia.
- Obstruction of the intestine if the growth becomes large enough.
Diagnosis
- Endoscopy, particularly capsule endoscopy or enteroscopy.
- Imaging tests such as abdominal CT scan or MRI.
- Biopsy of the growth during an endoscopic procedure for histological examination.
Treatment Options
- Monitoring small neoplasms that do not cause symptoms.
- Surgical resection to remove the growth if it causes symptoms or has the potential for complications.
- Endoscopic procedures to remove polyps or small lesions without open surgery.
Prognosis and Follow-Up
- Generally favorable prognosis, especially if the neoplasm is fully removed.
- Regular follow-up is recommended to monitor for new or recurrent growths.
- Periodic imaging or endoscopic evaluation may be needed based on individual risk factors.
Complications
- Potential complications include intestinal blockage, bleeding, or transformation into malignant tumors, although this is rare.
Lifestyle & Prevention
- A balanced diet high in fiber and low in red and processed meats may aid in prevention.
- Regular physical activity and maintaining a healthy weight.
- Routine medical check-ups and screening tests for those with a family history of similar conditions.
When to Seek Professional Help
- Seek immediate medical attention for severe abdominal pain, persistent vomiting, or signs of gastrointestinal bleeding (e.g., black or tarry stools).
- Consult a healthcare provider if experiencing unexplained symptoms such as weight loss or fatigue.
Additional Resources
- American Cancer Society (cancer.org)
- National Institutes of Health (nih.gov)
- Digestive Disease National Coalition (ddnc.org)
Tips for Medical Coders
- Ensure accurate documentation of the neoplasm’s location within the small intestine to differentiate it from other intestinal conditions.
- Verify that the code D13.39 is used specifically for benign neoplasms that are not otherwise classified within the small intestine.
- Avoid coding errors by confirming the non-malignant nature of the growth before using this code.