C84.6A
Anaplastic large cell lymphoma, ALK-positive, in remission
Clinical Classification Guidelines
Medical Intelligence & Overview
Anaplastic large cell lymphoma (ALCL) is a type of non-Hodgkin lymphoma, which is a cancer that begins in the lymphatic system. The subtype classified as ALK-positive indicates the presence of a specific abnormal protein called anaplastic lymphoma kinase. When a patient is described as being 'in remission,' it means that after treatment, signs and symptoms of the lymphoma are reduced or have disappeared. The ICD-10 code C84.6A specifically refers to this subtype in its remission phase, offering a standardized way for healthcare providers to document and manage the condition.
Causes & Symptoms
Clinical Causes: Genetic mutations leading to abnormal cell growth Overexpression of the ALK gene due to genetic translocations, most notably the t(2;5) translocation Environmental factors or exposure to certain chemicals or radiation—though these are less clearly established Possible immune system irregularities that impair the body's ability to attack abnormal cells
Key Symptoms: Swollen lymph nodes, often painless, in areas like the neck, armpits, or groin Fever and night sweats Unexplained weight loss Fatigue or feeling unusually tired Persistent cough or chest discomfort if lymph nodes are involved in the chest Skin lesions or rashes, depending on the spread of the disease B Symptoms: symptoms like fever, weight loss, and night sweats that indicate systemic involvement
Diagnostic & Treatment
Diagnosis Path: Physical examination to check for swollen lymph nodes and other signs Imaging tests such as CT scans, PET scans, or MRI to locate affected areas Biopsy of a lymph node or affected tissue to examine cells microscopically Immunohistochemistry tests to detect ALK protein expression Molecular genetic testing to identify specific gene translocations like t(2;5) Blood tests to assess overall health and organ function
Treatment Protocols: Chemotherapy to destroy lymphoma cells Targeted therapy drugs that inhibit the ALK protein, such as crizotinib Radiation therapy in cases where localized disease is present Stem cell or bone marrow transplantation in certain situations Supportive care to manage side effects and maintain quality of life Monitoring through regular follow-up examinations and imaging to detect any signs of relapse
Clinical Advice & FAQs
Billing Guidance
Is C84.6A a billable ICD-10 code?
Yes, C84.6A is a specific, billable code that can be used to indicate a diagnosis for reimbursement purposes.
Documentation
How do I report C84.6A?
Clinical documentation must specify the nature of Anaplastic large cell lymphoma, ALK-positive, in remission and any associated comorbidities for accurate reporting.
Cite this Clinical Reference