Find comprehensive information on peritoneal cancer, including diagnosis codes (ICD-10 C48, C78), clinical documentation requirements, and healthcare resources. Learn about peritoneal carcinomatosis, primary peritoneal cancer, and related medical coding guidelines for accurate billing and reimbursement. Explore treatment options, prognosis, and support services for patients diagnosed with peritoneal cancer. This resource offers valuable insights for healthcare professionals, coders, and patients seeking information on this rare malignancy.
Also known as
Peritoneal mesothelioma
Cancer specifically affecting the peritoneum lining.
Peritoneal carcinomatosis
Cancer that has spread to the peritoneum from another site.
Retroperitoneal mesothelioma
Cancer affecting the tissues behind the peritoneum.
Malignant neoplasms digestive organs
Cancers of digestive organs that may spread to peritoneum.
Follow this step-by-step guide to choose the correct ICD-10 code.
Is the peritoneal cancer primary?
Yes
Specify the primary site.
No
Is the primary site known?
When to use each related code
| Description |
|---|
| Peritoneal Cancer |
| Peritoneal Metastasis |
| Primary Peritoneal Serous Carcinoma |
Incorrect coding of the primary site of peritoneal cancer, often confused with ovarian or other abdominal cancers, impacting accurate staging and treatment.
Lack of specific histology documentation may lead to generic coding of peritoneal cancer, affecting treatment planning and research data accuracy.
Confusion in coding malignant ascites as a separate diagnosis or part of peritoneal cancer may lead to inflated comorbidity scores and inaccurate resource allocation.
Q: What are the most effective current treatment strategies for managing malignant peritoneal mesothelioma in patients with unresectable disease?
A: For patients with unresectable malignant peritoneal mesothelioma, current treatment strategies often involve a multimodal approach. Cytoreductive surgery (CRS) combined with hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC) has demonstrated improved survival rates compared to systemic chemotherapy alone in select patient populations. Systemic chemotherapy regimens, typically including platinum-based agents like cisplatin or carboplatin and pemetrexed, are also utilized, especially for patients not eligible for CRS/HIPEC. Emerging treatment modalities, such as targeted therapies and immunotherapy, are under investigation and may offer additional options in the future. The specific treatment strategy is individualized based on factors like patient performance status, histologic subtype, and extent of disease. Explore how multidisciplinary tumor boards can assist in determining the optimal treatment plan for these complex cases.
Q: How can I differentiate between peritoneal carcinomatosis from a primary ovarian cancer versus a primary gastrointestinal malignancy based on clinical presentation and diagnostic workup?
A: Differentiating peritoneal carcinomatosis originating from ovarian versus gastrointestinal (GI) primary malignancies can be challenging due to overlapping clinical presentations. While both may present with ascites, abdominal pain, and bloating, subtle clues can aid in the initial assessment. Ovarian cancer often presents with a pelvic mass and elevated CA-125 levels, whereas GI malignancies might present with changes in bowel habits, iron deficiency anemia, or elevated CEA or CA 19-9 levels. Imaging modalities, including CT and MRI, are crucial for characterizing the disease burden and potential primary site. Ultimately, definitive diagnosis requires histopathological confirmation, often obtained through laparoscopy or paracentesis with cytology. Consider implementing a comprehensive diagnostic algorithm, including tumor markers, imaging, and tissue biopsy, to accurately identify the primary source and guide appropriate management.
Patient presents with symptoms suggestive of peritoneal cancer, including abdominal pain, distension, ascites, nausea, vomiting, and weight loss. Physical examination reveals abdominal tenderness, palpable masses, and evidence of fluid accumulation. Diagnostic workup includes CT scan of the abdomen and pelvis demonstrating peritoneal thickening, nodularity, and ascites, consistent with peritoneal carcinomatosis. Laboratory findings may include elevated CA-125 levels, although this is not diagnostic. Paracentesis and cytology confirm the presence of malignant cells. Differential diagnoses considered include ovarian cancer with peritoneal metastasis, primary peritoneal mesothelioma, and other intra-abdominal malignancies. Given the clinical presentation, imaging findings, and cytology results, the diagnosis of peritoneal cancer is established. The patient was counseled regarding prognosis and treatment options, including cytoreductive surgery with hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC), systemic chemotherapy, and palliative care. Risks and benefits of each treatment modality were discussed, and the patient opted for palliative chemotherapy to manage symptoms. Referral to oncology and palliative care services initiated. Follow-up scheduled to assess treatment response and manage symptoms. ICD-10 code C48.1, malignant neoplasm of peritoneum, is documented. Patient education provided regarding disease process, treatment plan, and symptom management strategies. Emphasis placed on the importance of regular follow-up appointments and communication with the healthcare team.