ICD 10 CM C91.42 | Description & Clinical Information

ICD 10 C91.42 describes a specific medical condition known as hairy cell leukemia, which is a rare form of chronic lymphoid leukemia characterized by the presence of hair-like projections on immature B lymphocytes, resulting in abnormal cell growth and multiplication that accumulates in the bone marrow, leading to the inhibition of normal blood cell production, and typically affecting middle-aged or older men; this code is used to indicate the recurrence of signs and symptoms of hairy cell leukemia after a period of remission following treatment.

Official Description Of C91.42

The ICD 10 CM book defines ICD 10 code C91.42 as:

Clinical Information

The diagnosis describes by the ICD-10-CM code C91.42 is hairy cell leukemia. This is a rare type of cancer that affects the white blood cells known as B cells. One of the primary indicators of the disease is an enlarged spleen, which can lead to abdominal discomfort.

In addition to abdominal discomfort, patients may experience severe fatigue, weight loss, night sweats, frequent infections, fever, easy bleeding, and anemia. These symptoms may vary depending on the involvement of various organs as cancer spreads.

Diagnosing hairy cell leukemia involves a combination of patient history, physical examination, and laboratory tests. Blood tests may show decreased thrombocytes and neutrophils as the disease progresses. Diagnostic procedures include bone marrow biopsy and microscopic analysis, along with a CBC count, peripheral blood smear, LDH, liver function tests, and kidney function tests. Imaging studies may also be conducted, including ultrasound of the liver or spleen and CT scan.

While there is no cure for hairy cell leukemia, the goal of treatment is to put the disease in remission. Patients with few or no symptoms may not need treatment and can survive for years. However, patients showing signs of progressive disease or developing symptoms may receive treatment.

Treatment options vary depending on the stage and severity of the disease. This can range from single agent to multiple agent chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and stem cell transplantation for those with more advanced disease. Regular follow-up is recommended for all patients with cancer.

In conclusion, the ICD-10-CM code C91.42 designates hairy cell leukemia, a rare cancer affecting B cells. While it has no cure, there are treatments available, and regular follow-up can help manage the disease. Health care providers use a variety of diagnostic procedures, such as blood or bone marrow tests, to identify and monitor the condition. Patients who suspect they have this disease must seek immediate medical attention.