ALTERNATE NAMES

Cancer of the Colon; Colorectal Small Cell Cancer; Small Cell Carcinoma of the Large Intestine

DESCRIPTION

Small cell cancer of the large intestine is an aggressive (fast-growing) cancer that forms in tissues of the intestine and can spread to other parts of the body. The cancer cells look small and oval-shaped when looked at under a microscope. Small cell cancer of the large intestine represents .2-.8% of all colorectal malignancies.

DIAGNOSTIC TESTING, PHYSICAL FINDINGS, AND ICD-9-CM/ICD-10-CM CODING

Diagnostic testing: The diagnosis of small cell cancer of the large intestine is confirmed by pathology and the use of immunohistochemistry. Specific staining for CD56, pancytokeratin, LMWK, CK 7, and 19 are usually positive in small cell malignancies.

Early diagnosis depends on:

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  Routine screening;

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  Occult blood study;

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  Sigmoidoscopy;

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  Colonoscopy;

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  Computed tomography (CT) scan; and

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  Endoscopy.

Physical findings: General symptoms may include:

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  Change in bowel habits,

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  Abdominal pain; and

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  Weight loss.

ICD-9: 209.0

ICD-10: C7A.019

PROGRESSION

Survival rates are poor, usually less than 2 years.

TREATMENT

Treatment for small cell cancer of the large intestine is the use of combined chemotherapy and radiotherapy as is used in small cell cancer of the lung.

Suggested MER for Evaluation: The diagnosis of small cell cancer of the large intestine is a pathologic diagnosis which would be confirmed by a pathology report of colonoscopy specimen.

Suggested Listings for Evaluation:

DETERMINATION

LISTING

REMARKS

Meets

13.18

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