Name of the Condition

• Benign Neoplasm of Brain, Infratentorial
• Also known as a non-cancerous brain tumor located below the tentorium.

Summary

Benign neoplasm of the brain, infratentorial, refers to a non-cancerous growth located in the lower part of the brain, specifically beneath the tentorium, which is a membrane that separates the cerebellum from the inferior part of the cerebrum. These tumors can affect brain function by pressing on surrounding tissues, despite being non-malignant.

Causes

The exact cause of infratentorial benign brain neoplasms is not well understood, but they may develop due to genetic predispositions or arise sporadically without a clear genetic link.

Risk Factors

• Family history of brain tumors
• Genetic syndromes, such as Neurofibromatosis type 2
• Previous radiation exposure, particularly to the head

Symptoms

• Headaches, often severe and persistent
• Nausea or vomiting
• Problems with balance or coordination
• Difficulty walking
• Changes in speech or hearing
• Ataxia (lack of voluntary muscle coordination)

Diagnosis

• Neurological examination
• Imaging tests such as MRI or CT scans to visualize the tumor
• Biopsy may be conducted to confirm the diagnosis and rule out malignancy

Treatment Options

• Surgical Removal: The primary treatment involves surgical resection of the tumor to relieve pressure and improve symptoms.
• Radiation Therapy: May be used post-surgery to eliminate residual tumor cells or when surgery is not feasible.
• Observation: In some cases, watchful waiting may be appropriate, particularly if the tumor is small and asymptomatic, monitoring for changes over time.

Prognosis and Follow-Up

• Prognosis is generally favorable with treatment, as benign tumors are non-cancerous and often removable.
• Regular follow-up with MRIs and neurological assessments are crucial to monitor for any recurrence.

Complications

• Neurological deficits from tumor location or surgical complications
• Recurrence of the tumor
• Hydrocephalus due to blockage of cerebrospinal fluid pathways

Lifestyle & Prevention

• There are no specific lifestyle changes known to prevent benign brain neoplasms.
• General brain health may be supported through a balanced diet, regular exercise, and avoiding exposure to known carcinogens.

When to Seek Professional Help

• Persistent headaches, especially if accompanied by nausea or vomiting
• Noticeable changes in coordination, balance, or neurological function
• Sudden and significant changes in vision, speech, or behavior

Additional Resources

• American Brain Tumor Association (ABTA)
• National Brain Tumor Society
• Brain Tumor Foundation

Tips for Medical Coders

• Ensure the specificity of the code by confirming the tumor's benign nature and infratentorial location.
• Double-check patient records and imaging findings to accurately differentiate from malignant or supratentorial tumors.
• Be mindful of coding for associated procedures like biopsy or surgical resections, which may have separate codes.