Secondary malignant neoplasm of small intestine
ICD-10 C78.4 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of secondary malignant neoplasm of small intestine.
C78.4 refers to secondary malignant neoplasms of the small intestine, indicating that cancer has metastasized to this area from a primary site elsewhere in the body. This condition is often associated with advanced stages of cancer, where the primary tumor may be unknown or difficult to identify. The small intestine, comprising the duodenum, jejunum, and ileum, can be affected by various types of cancers, including those originating from the breast, lung, or colon. Symptoms may include abdominal pain, obstruction, weight loss, and gastrointestinal bleeding. Diagnosis typically involves imaging studies such as CT scans, MRIs, or endoscopic procedures, alongside histopathological examination of biopsies. Staging of metastatic disease is crucial for treatment planning and may involve the use of the TNM classification system, which assesses tumor size, lymph node involvement, and distant metastasis. Palliative care considerations are essential, focusing on symptom management and improving quality of life, especially in cases where curative treatment is not feasible.
Comprehensive documentation of the primary cancer site, staging, and treatment plans.
Patients with known primary cancers presenting with gastrointestinal symptoms.
Ensure clear differentiation between primary and metastatic tumors.
Detailed reports of endoscopic findings and biopsy results.
Patients with unexplained abdominal pain and weight loss undergoing diagnostic procedures.
Document any findings that suggest metastatic disease versus benign conditions.
Used for patients with obstructive symptoms due to metastatic disease.
Operative report detailing the procedure and findings.
Oncology and gastroenterology must coordinate on treatment plans.
Coding C78.4 is crucial for accurately representing the patient's condition of metastatic disease, which impacts treatment decisions, prognosis, and healthcare resource allocation.
