Hello and welcome to this journal article on Mesothelioma ICD 9. Mesothelioma is a type of cancer that is caused by exposure to asbestos. It can affect the lining of the lungs, abdomen, and heart. In this article, we will discuss the diagnosis and treatment of mesothelioma using ICD 9 codes.
What is Mesothelioma ICD 9?
Mesothelioma ICD 9 refers to the coding used by healthcare professionals to diagnose and treat mesothelioma. The International Classification of Diseases, Ninth Revision (ICD-9) codes are used to describe the diagnosis and treatment of mesothelioma in medical records.
ICD-9 Codes for Mesothelioma
The following are the ICD-9 codes for mesothelioma:
| ICD-9 Code | Description |
|---|---|
| 163.0 | Pleural Mesothelioma |
| 163.1 | Peritoneal Mesothelioma |
| 163.8 | Other Mesothelioma |
| 163.9 | Unspecified Mesothelioma |
These codes are used to identify the type and location of the mesothelioma in the patient.
Diagnosis of Mesothelioma
The diagnosis of mesothelioma can be difficult because the symptoms are similar to other respiratory diseases. The process of diagnosing mesothelioma usually involves a combination of medical tests and imaging studies, such as X-rays, CT scans, and biopsies.
Medical Tests for Mesothelioma
Medical tests that may be used to diagnose mesothelioma include:
1. Blood tests – These tests are often used to check for elevated levels of a protein called mesothelin, which is produced by mesothelioma cells.
2. Pulmonary function tests – These tests measure how well the lungs are working and can help detect abnormalities.
3. Biopsies – A tissue sample is taken from the affected area and examined under a microscope to confirm the presence of mesothelioma cells.
Imaging Studies for Mesothelioma
Imaging studies that may be used to diagnose mesothelioma include:
1. X-rays – These tests may show abnormalities in the chest or abdomen.
2. CT scans – These tests provide detailed images of the internal organs and can help detect abnormalities.
3. MRI scans – These tests use magnetic fields and radio waves to produce detailed images of the body.
Treatment of Mesothelioma
The treatment of mesothelioma depends on the location and stage of the cancer. Treatment options include surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and targeted therapy.
Surgery for Mesothelioma
Surgery may be used to remove the cancerous tissue and surrounding areas. The following are surgical procedures that may be used to treat mesothelioma:
1. Pleurectomy/decortication – This involves the removal of the lining of the lungs and chest wall.
2. Extrapleural pneumonectomy – This involves the removal of the affected lung, the lining of the chest and the diaphragm and pericardium.
Chemotherapy for Mesothelioma
Chemotherapy is a treatment that uses drugs to kill cancer cells. Chemotherapy may be used before or after surgery to reduce the size of the tumor and destroy any remaining cancer cells.
Radiation Therapy for Mesothelioma
Radiation therapy uses high-energy radiation to kill cancer cells. This treatment may be used to shrink the tumor or to relieve symptoms caused by the cancer.
Targeted Therapy for Mesothelioma
Targeted therapy is a newer form of treatment that targets specific proteins or genes that contribute to the growth of cancer cells. This treatment may be used in combination with other treatments to help reduce the size of the tumor and destroy cancer cells.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: What are the risk factors for mesothelioma?
A: The most common risk factor for mesothelioma is exposure to asbestos. Other risk factors include smoking, family history, and radiation exposure.
Q: What are the symptoms of mesothelioma?
A: The symptoms of mesothelioma include chest pain, coughing, shortness of breath, weight loss, and fatigue.
Q: Can mesothelioma be cured?
A: Mesothelioma is a difficult cancer to treat, but it can be managed with a combination of surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and targeted therapy. The prognosis for mesothelioma depends on the stage of the cancer and the patient’s overall health.
Q: How is mesothelioma diagnosed?
A: Mesothelioma is usually diagnosed through a combination of medical tests, imaging studies, and biopsies. Blood tests may also be used to detect elevated levels of a protein called mesothelin.
Q: What is the survival rate for mesothelioma?
A: The survival rate for mesothelioma depends on the stage of the cancer at the time of diagnosis. The five-year survival rate for mesothelioma is approximately 10 to 15 percent.
Q: Can mesothelioma be prevented?
A: Mesothelioma can be prevented by avoiding exposure to asbestos. This includes wearing protective clothing and respiratory equipment when working with asbestos-containing materials.
Conclusion
In conclusion, mesothelioma is a rare but deadly form of cancer that is caused by exposure to asbestos. The diagnosis and treatment of mesothelioma using ICD 9 codes involves a combination of medical tests, imaging studies, and biopsies. Treatment options include surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and targeted therapy. If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with mesothelioma, it is important to seek medical attention as soon as possible. With early detection and treatment, the prognosis for mesothelioma can be improved.