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Benign lipomatous neoplasm of skin and subcutaneous tissue of right arm
ICD10CM code
Name of the Condition
- Benign Lipomatous Neoplasm of Skin and Subcutaneous Tissue of Right Arm (D17.21)
- Commonly referred to as a lipoma.
Summary
A benign lipomatous neoplasm is a non-cancerous tumor composed of fat cells that occur in the skin and subcutaneous tissue. When it appears on the right arm, it typically presents as a soft, movable lump under the skin.
Causes
The exact cause of lipomas is unknown, but they may be linked to genetic factors and possibly minor injuries to the area, although this is not well-proven.
Risk Factors
- Family history of lipomas.
- Age, as they often appear in middle-aged adults.
- Certain genetic conditions may predispose some individuals to develop multiple lipomas.
Symptoms
- A small, soft, rubbery lump that can be easily moved under the skin.
- Generally painless, but larger lipomas may press on nerves and cause discomfort.
Diagnosis
- Physical examination by a healthcare provider.
- Imaging tests like ultrasound or MRI can be used if there is uncertainty or to assess deeper tissues.
- Biopsy may be performed to rule out other conditions if the diagnosis is unclear.
Treatment Options
- Observation: Many lipomas do not require treatment unless they cause symptoms.
- Surgical removal: Considered if the lipoma is painful or cosmetically concerning.
- Liposuction: An option for removing large lipomas, but may not remove the entire mass.
Prognosis and Follow-Up
- Lipomas generally have an excellent prognosis with no risk of malignancy.
- Rarely recur after surgical removal.
- Regular follow-up is unnecessary unless symptoms change or new growth occurs.
Complications
- Usually minimal, but complications can include infection or scarring post-surgery.
- Large lipomas may interfere with movement or compress nearby structures.
Lifestyle & Prevention
- No specific lifestyle changes or preventive measures are known to prevent the development of lipomas.
- Maintaining a healthy weight may minimize the development of lumps, but there is no direct correlation.
When to Seek Professional Help
- Noticeable rapid growth or changes in the characteristics of the lump.
- Pain, restricted movement, or substantial cosmetic concerns.
- New lumps that appear suddenly or are firm and fixed in place.
Additional Resources
Tips for Medical Coders
- Ensure correct coding by confirming the benign nature and location (right arm) of the lipoma.
- Verify any documentation indicating symptoms or complications for additional coding if applicable.
- Avoid confusion with malignant lipomatous neoplasms or lipomas in different locations—always confirm anatomical and pathological specifics.