ICD 10 CM C51.1 | Description & Clinical Information
ICD 10 C51.1 describes a type of cancerous growth that occurs in the thin fold of skin beneath the labia majora, known as the labium minus, which has the potential to rapidly spread to nearby tissues, blood vessels, or lymphatic vessels, and is associated with risk factors such as older age, human papillomavirus (HPV) infections, smoking, and a weakened immune system.
Official Description Of C51.1
The ICD 10 CM book defines ICD 10 code C51.1 as:
Excludes1: carcinoma in situ of vulva (D07.1)
Clinical Information
The diagnosis describes by ICD-10-CM code C51.1 is malignant neoplasm of the labium minus, which is a rare type of cancer that affects the vulva. The labium minus is the inner fold of the vulva, and cancer of this area can lead to varying symptoms in women. The cancerous growth can cause skin thickening, soreness, and the formation of a lump that may resemble a wart or ulcer. Women with vulvar cancer may also experience painful urination, painful intercourse, itching, and bleeding.
Early detection of this cancer is critical to successful treatment, as the malignancy can spread to other organs and tissues such as the rectum, bladder, and pelvis. Therefore, it is important for women to have regular gynecologic exams and to report any unusual symptoms to their healthcare providers.
Diagnosis of vulvar cancer is based on medical history, physical exam, and diagnostic tests to confirm the presence of cancerous cells. A punch biopsy is usually performed to obtain cancerous tissues and confirm the diagnosis. Imaging tests like CT scans, MRI, and PET scans may be required to determine the extent of the cancer and whether it has spread.
Treatment for malignant neoplasm of the labium minus varies based on the stage of cancer development. Women with early-stage vulvar cancer may undergo surgery, which may include partial or complete vulvectomy to remove affected areas of the vulva. Radiation therapy alone or in combination with chemotherapy may also be used to destroy cancerous cells. For advanced cases, chemotherapy combined with radiation therapy is often recommended to target cancer in hard-to-reach areas and prevent it from spreading.
As with all cancers, early detection and accurate diagnosis of malignant neoplasm of the labium minus are crucial to increase the chances of successful treatment and long-term survival. Women should be educated about the signs, symptoms, and importance of having regular gynecologic exams to maintain optimal reproductive health. Healthcare providers need to be vigilant in monitoring women’s health and screening for any signs of vulvar malignancy to ensure timely diagnosis and treatment.
