Find comprehensive information on peritoneal carcinomatosis, including diagnosis codes (ICD-10 C78.6), clinical documentation requirements, treatment options, and prognosis. Learn about the signs and symptoms, diagnostic procedures like laparoscopy and biopsy, and the role of healthcare professionals in managing this condition. Explore resources for patients and medical professionals covering peritoneal cancer, malignant ascites, and related medical coding guidelines.
Also known as
Peritoneal carcinomatosis
Cancer spread to the peritoneum.
Secondary malignant neoplasm of digestive organs
Cancer that has spread to the digestive organs.
Secondary malignant neoplasm of other specified sites
Cancer spread to other specific sites, excluding digestive organs.
Malignant neoplasm without specification of site
Unspecified primary cancer site, potentially involving peritoneum.
Follow this step-by-step guide to choose the correct ICD-10 code.
Is the peritoneal carcinomatosis primary?
Yes
Code C48.1, Primary malignant neoplasm of peritoneum
No
Is the primary site known?
When to use each related code
| Description |
|---|
| Peritoneal Carcinomatosis |
| Pseudomyxoma Peritonei |
| Primary Peritoneal Cancer |
Coding peritoneal carcinomatosis without identifying the primary cancer site leads to inaccurate reporting and potential claim denials. Proper documentation of the origin is crucial for accurate coding (C78.6).
Miscoding malignant ascites (R18) as peritoneal carcinomatosis (C78.6) can occur. Accurate clinical documentation differentiating diffuse malignancy from ascites fluid is essential for correct coding.
Insufficient documentation supporting the extent and confirmation of peritoneal carcinomatosis impacts code assignment. Specificity in operative notes and pathology reports is vital for accurate coding and billing.
Patient presents with signs and symptoms suggestive of peritoneal carcinomatosis. Clinical presentation includes abdominal pain, distension, ascites, nausea, vomiting, and weight loss. Physical examination may reveal abdominal tenderness, palpable masses, or hepatomegaly. The patient's medical history includes (mention relevant prior diagnoses, e.g., primary malignancy of the ovary, colon, stomach, appendix, or breast). Diagnostic workup for peritoneal carcinomatosis includes imaging studies such as CT scan of the abdomen and pelvis, which may demonstrate peritoneal thickening, nodularity, and ascites. Paracentesis with cytology is crucial for diagnostic confirmation, evaluating for malignant cells in the peritoneal fluid. Laboratory tests including complete blood count, comprehensive metabolic panel, and tumor markers (e.g., CEA, CA-125) are performed to assess overall health and disease burden. The differential diagnosis includes other causes of ascites, such as cirrhosis, heart failure, and tuberculosis. Based on the collective findings, the diagnosis of peritoneal carcinomatosis is established. Treatment options for peritoneal carcinomatosis are discussed with the patient, including systemic chemotherapy, cytoreductive surgery combined with hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC), and palliative care. The prognosis for peritoneal carcinomatosis is often poor, and treatment goals are focused on symptom management and quality of life. Patient education is provided regarding disease progression, treatment options, and potential complications. Follow-up appointments are scheduled for ongoing monitoring and management of the disease. ICD-10 code C78.6 (peritoneal carcinomatosis secondary) is documented along with the appropriate primary malignancy code if known.