Agranulocytosis secondary to cancer chemotherapy
ICD-10 D70.1 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of agranulocytosis secondary to cancer chemotherapy.
Agranulocytosis is a severe form of neutropenia characterized by an extremely low level of neutrophils, a type of white blood cell essential for fighting off infections. This condition can occur as a side effect of cancer chemotherapy, which often targets rapidly dividing cells, including those in the bone marrow responsible for producing neutrophils. Patients undergoing chemotherapy may experience a significant drop in their white blood cell count, leading to increased susceptibility to infections, fever, and other complications. The risk of agranulocytosis varies depending on the type of chemotherapy regimen, the dosage, and the individual patient's response. Monitoring of blood counts is crucial during treatment, and patients may require interventions such as growth factor support or antibiotics to manage the risk of infections. Understanding the underlying mechanisms of neutropenia and the impact of chemotherapy on bone marrow function is essential for effective management and coding of this condition.
Detailed records of chemotherapy regimens, patient response, and blood count monitoring.
Patients experiencing febrile neutropenia post-chemotherapy, requiring hospitalization.
Ensure accurate coding of the specific chemotherapy agent and dosage.
Comprehensive blood work results and history of hematologic disorders.
Patients with pre-existing blood disorders undergoing chemotherapy.
Differentiating between primary and secondary causes of neutropenia.
Used to monitor blood counts in patients undergoing chemotherapy.
Document the reason for the CBC and the results.
Oncology specialists should ensure that CBC results are linked to chemotherapy treatment.
The primary cause is the suppression of bone marrow function due to cytotoxic effects of chemotherapy agents, leading to a significant decrease in neutrophil production.
