ICD 10 CM C74.02 | Description & Clinical Information
ICD 10 C74.02 describes a type of cancer known as malignant neoplasm that affects the cortex of the left adrenal gland, which is responsible for producing hormones and regulating vital functions, and is characterized by the abnormal growth of cells in the gland, with genetic predisposition being a significant risk factor.
Official Description Of C74.02
The ICD 10 CM book defines ICD 10 code C74.02 as:
When To Use C74.02
The diagnosis describes by ICD 10 CM C74.02 is malignant neoplasm of the left adrenal gland, a potentially life-threatening condition. The adrenal gland is an endocrine gland located above the kidney that produces hormones that regulate blood pressure, heart rate, and other bodily functions. When abnormal cells begin to grow uncontrollably in the adrenal gland, they form a tumor that can spread to other parts of the body if left untreated.
Patients with malignant neoplasm of the left adrenal gland experience a range of symptoms, including high blood pressure, increased heart rate, headache, weakness, excessive nervousness or anxiety, profuse sweating, and abnormal hair growth. As the cancer progresses, it can spread to nearby lymph nodes and other areas of the body, causing further complications.
To diagnose malignant neoplasm of the left adrenal gland, healthcare providers use a combination of methods. They begin by conducting a physical examination and taking a detailed medical history to look for signs of the disease. They may also perform blood and urine tests to check for elevated levels of adrenal cortical hormones such as cortisol, aldosterone, and DHEA, which can indicate the presence of cancer. Additionally, they may perform blood tests for electrolytes, specifically potassium.
A biopsy, which involves taking tissue samples from the adrenal gland for examination, can help confirm a diagnosis of cancer. Imaging tests such as ultrasound, adrenal angiography, computerized tomography (CT) scans, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and positron emission tomography (PET) may also be used to stage the malignancy and determine the best course of treatment.
The treatment for malignant neoplasm of the left adrenal gland depends on the stage and extent of the cancer. For early stage cancers, doctors may recommend surgery to remove the tumor or adrenalectomy, which involves removing the entire adrenal gland. For more advanced cancers, chemotherapy and radiation therapy in combination with surgery may be necessary to reduce the size of the tumor, prevent further spread of cancer, and improve the patient’s prognosis.
Drugs that block the overproduction of adrenal cortical hormones may also be necessary in some cases. These drugs, such as mitotane, ketoconazole, and metyrapone, can help control the symptoms of the disease and reduce the growth of cancer cells.
In conclusion, malignant neoplasm of the left adrenal gland is a serious condition that requires prompt diagnosis and appropriate treatment. By using a combination of methods such as physical examination, medical history and tests like biopsy, imaging tests and blood tests, healthcare providers can determine the extent of the disease and the best course of action. Treatment can involve surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy or drugs that can mitigate the symptoms of the disease. Early intervention and comprehensive treatment are key to improving the outcomes for patients with malignant neoplasm of the left adrenal gland.
