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Polyp of corpus uteri
ICD10CM code
#### Name of the Condition
- Common name: Polyp of Corpus Uteri
- Medical term: Endometrial Polyps
#### Summary
Endometrial polyps are growths attached to the inner wall of the uterus that extend into the uterine cavity. They are usually benign (non-cancerous) and can range in size from a few millimeters to several centimeters.
#### Causes
The exact cause of endometrial polyps is not fully understood, but they are thought to be associated with an imbalance of the hormone estrogen, which can cause an overgrowth of the uterine lining.
#### Risk Factors
- Age: More common in women in their 40s and 50s.
- Obesity
- Tamoxifen usage (a drug used in breast cancer treatment)
- Hypertension
- Hormonal factors, such as hormone replacement therapy
#### Symptoms
- Irregular menstrual bleeding (e.g., heavy periods or spotting between periods)
- Bleeding after menopause
- Infertility
- Some women may be asymptomatic and have no symptoms.
#### Diagnosis
- Transvaginal ultrasound: Imaging to visualize the uterus and detect polyps.
- Hysteroscopy: A procedure using a thin, lighted tube inserted into the uterus to visually assess and possibly biopsy the polyp.
- Endometrial biopsy: A sample of the uterine lining is taken to check for abnormalities.
#### Treatment Options
- Observation: Small polyps without symptoms may not require treatment.
- Medication: Hormonal treatments may help shrink polyps, but they often return after stopping the medication.
- Surgical removal (polypectomy): The polyp is removed, often during a hysteroscopy, especially if symptomatic or suspicious.
#### Prognosis and Follow-Up
Endometrial polyps are often benign and have a good prognosis if removed. Regular follow-up is important to monitor for recurrence. Removal can alleviate symptoms such as irregular bleeding and may improve fertility.
#### Complications
- If left untreated, a small percentage of polyps may have precancerous changes or progress to uterine cancer.
- Persistent abnormal bleeding impacting quality of life.
#### Lifestyle & Prevention
- Manage body weight and maintain a balanced diet.
- Regular medical check-ups for early detection, especially in women over 40 or with risk factors.
- Discuss with a healthcare provider the risks and benefits of hormone therapy.
#### When to Seek Professional Help
- Experiencing unusual or heavy menstrual bleeding.
- Bleeding after menopause.
- Difficulties with conception or recurrent miscarriages.
#### Additional Resources
- [American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG)](https://www.acog.org)
- [Mayo Clinic](https://www.mayoclinic.org)
- Patient support groups, such as the National Uterine Polyps Foundation.
#### Tips for Medical Coders
- Ensure the correct code (N84.0) is used for endometrial polyps, distinct from other uterine or cervical polyps.
- Double-check patient records for mention of specific polyp location to avoid misclassification.
- Common errors include coding under general uterine disorder categories; specificity is essential.