ICD 10 CM C81.21 | Description & Clinical Information
ICD 10 C81.21 describes a specific type of classical Hodgkin lymphoma (CHL) known as mixed cellularity Hodgkin lymphoma (HL) that affects the lymph nodes of the head, face, and neck, characterized by the abnormal multiplication and accumulation of B lymphocytes, also known as Reed-Sternberg or RS cells, along with several other cells, resulting in the presence of numerous RS cells in the lymph nodes.
Official Description Of C81.21
The ICD 10 CM book defines ICD 10 code C81.21 as:
Excludes1: personal history of Hodgkin lymphoma (Z85.71)
When To Use C81.21
The diagnosis describes by the ICD 10 CM C81.21 code is mixed cellularity Hodgkin’s lymphoma (HL). This type of lymphoma mainly affects older adults, with a higher prevalence in men than women. The primary symptoms of mixed cellularity HL occur in the lymph nodes of the head, face, and neck, and are characterized by painless, enlarged lymph nodes, difficulty swallowing, and voice change. In some cases, patients may experience additional symptoms known as B symptoms, which include night sweats, relapsing/remitting fever, itching, and weight loss.
To diagnose mixed cellularity HL, providers often rely on a combination of patient history, signs, and symptoms, and physical examination. Further diagnostic procedures include a lymph node biopsy to analyze the lymph cells. Providers may also conduct a complete blood count (CBC) and blood chemistries to assess kidney and liver function, as well as antibody tests for hepatitis. Additionally, imaging studies like a CT or MRI may be used to check for deep lymph node involvement and assess the condition of the kidneys, spleen, and liver.
The treatment of mixed cellularity HL depends on various factors, such as the stage of the disease, the size and number of involved lymph nodes, and the presence of B symptoms. For early cases without B symptoms, surgery may be sufficient to remove affected lymph nodes. However, for patients with more advanced stages or B symptoms, a combination of chemotherapy and radiation therapy may be necessary to achieve the best possible outcome. In some cases, clinicians may opt for targeted therapies or stem cell transplantation as part of the patient’s overall treatment plan.
It’s worth noting that while mixed cellularity HL is a type of Hodgkin’s lymphoma, non-Hodgkin’s lymphomas can also cause similar symptoms. As such, accurate diagnosis and a comprehensive understanding of the disease’s presentation is vital for determining the most effective course of treatment. Overall, early detection and diagnosis frequently lead to a better prognosis and improved quality of life for patients with mixed cellularity HL.
