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Benign neoplasm of unspecified adrenal gland
ICD10CM code
Name of the Condition
- Benign neoplasm of unspecified adrenal gland
- Also known as benign adrenal tumor, adrenal adenoma (if confirmed as adenoma).
Summary
- A benign neoplasm of the adrenal gland is a non-cancerous tumor found in the adrenal glands, which are small glands located on top of each kidney. These tumors are often asymptomatic and are usually found incidentally during imaging tests for other conditions.
Causes
- The exact cause of benign adrenal tumors is not well understood. However, they can sometimes be linked to genetic conditions or hormonal imbalances.
Risk Factors
- Family history of adrenal tumors or genetic syndromes.
- Age, with a slightly higher prevalence in older adults.
- Conditions like obesity, diabetes, and hypertension may be associated.
Symptoms
- Often asymptomatic, but when symptoms occur, they may include high blood pressure, unexplained weight gain or loss, fatigue, and hormonal imbalances leading to changes in hair growth or skin changes.
Diagnosis
- Typically diagnosed using imaging techniques like CT scans or MRIs.
- Blood tests and urine tests may be conducted to check for hormonal imbalances.
- A biopsy may be done in some cases to assess the nature of the tumor.
Treatment Options
- Observation or "watchful waiting" if the tumor is asymptomatic.
- Surgical removal if the tumor causes symptoms or has the potential to become malignant.
- Medications to manage symptoms related to hormonal changes.
Prognosis and Follow-Up
- Benign adrenal neoplasms generally have an excellent prognosis.
- Regular follow-up imaging may be necessary to ensure the tumor does not grow or change character, especially if it's not initially treated with surgery.
Complications
- Potential for hormonal overproduction leading to conditions such as Cushing's syndrome or Conn's syndrome.
- Rarely, benign tumors can become malignant over time.
Lifestyle & Prevention
- Maintaining a healthy lifestyle with a balanced diet and regular exercise may help manage symptoms if hormonal imbalances occur.
- There are no specific preventive measures for adrenal tumors, but regular medical check-ups can aid in early detection and management.
When to Seek Professional Help
- Seek medical advice when experiencing symptoms like persistent high blood pressure, unexplained weight changes, or other signs of hormonal imbalance.
Additional Resources
Tips for Medical Coders
- Ensure the specificity of the tumor's location is identified when coding.
- Avoid confusion with malignant neoplasms or other adrenal disorders by checking medical records for the term ‘benign.'
- Cross-reference with any reported symptoms or related conditions to ensure comprehensive coding.