2025 ICD-10-CM code C52
(Valid) Effective Date: N/A Neoplasms - Malignant neoplasms of female genital organs 2: Neoplasms Feed
Malignant neoplasm of vagina.
Medical necessity for the treatment of vaginal cancer is established by the confirmed diagnosis of malignancy based on biopsy and imaging findings. The specific treatment approach, whether surgery, radiation, or chemotherapy, must be justified based on the stage and type of cancer, the patient's overall health, and clinical guidelines.
Clinicians diagnose vaginal cancer based on patient history, symptoms, and a gynecological exam, which may include a colposcopy. Further investigation may involve cystoscopy and proctoscopy to check for spread to the rectum or bladder. A biopsy is typically performed for diagnosis. Imaging tests, such as X-rays, CT scans, MRI, and PET scans, help determine the stage of the cancer. Treatment depends on the stage and may involve chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and surgery, including partial or complete vaginectomy.
In simple words: Vaginal cancer is the abnormal growth of cells in the vagina, which can spread to other tissues. Risk factors include older age, weakened immune systems (like with HIV), HPV, herpes, smoking, and exposure to diethylstilbestrol (DES). Symptoms may include pelvic pain, vaginal discharge, soreness, a lump, painful urination, and painful intercourse with bleeding. Diagnosis involves a pelvic exam, possibly a colposcopy, biopsy, and imaging tests like X-rays, CT, MRI, and PET scans. Treatment can include chemotherapy, radiation, and surgery.
Malignant neoplasm of the vagina (the muscular canal extending from the uterus to the external genital opening).
Example 1: A 60-year-old female presents with persistent vaginal bleeding and a palpable mass in the vagina. Biopsy confirms squamous cell carcinoma of the vagina., A patient with a history of HPV infection develops abnormal vaginal cells, which are later diagnosed as vaginal adenocarcinoma., A 70-year-old female with a history of DES exposure experiences vaginal discharge and pain. Examination and imaging reveal a malignant tumor in the vagina.
Documentation should include details of the patient's history, physical exam findings, including the size and location of the tumor, results of imaging studies, biopsy results confirming the diagnosis, and the stage of the cancer. Information regarding any associated HPV infection or DES exposure should also be documented.
- Specialties:Gynecologic Oncology, Oncology
- Place of Service:Inpatient Hospital, Outpatient Hospital, Physician's Office