ALTERNATE NAMES

Primary Omentum Cancer

DESCRIPTION

Primary Omental Cancer is an extremely rare cancer that begins in the omentum, a fold of the thin tissue known as the peritoneum that surrounds the stomach and other organs in the abdomen. The function of the omentum is not fully understood, but it extends to every organ in the abdomen and drapes over areas of inflammation, acting as a bandage to promote healing if there is an infection or other health problem.

Tumors that originate in the omentum are extremely rare; less than 100 cases have been documented.

Types of primary omental cancer include:

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  Gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GIST),

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  Malignant Hemaniopericytoma, and

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  Leiomyosarcoma.

The cause of primary omental cancer is unknown. Adults older than 50 are more likely to get primary omental cancer.

DIAGNOSTICTESTING, PHYSICAL FINDINGS, AND ICD-9-CM/ICD-10-CM CODING

Diagnostic testing: Diagnosis of primary omental cancer can be made by:

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  Computed tomography (CT) scans;

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  Biopsy;

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  Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI);

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  Positron emission tomography (PET); and

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  Ultrasounds.

Physical findings: Many individuals with primary omental cancer do not experience symptoms. Others may notice a new, solid mass in their abdomen. The mass may feel tender to the touch, or it may be painless.

Individuals with primary omental cancer may also have:

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  Abdominal pain;

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  Constipation;

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  Inability to eat a full meal (early satiety);

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  Nausea or vomiting;

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  Swollen abdomen (abdominal distention); or

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  Unexplained weight loss.

ICD-9: 158.8,199.1

ICD-10: C48.1, C80.1

PROGRESSION

Individuals with this condition have a median survival time of only 6 months.

TREATMENT

Because of the rarity of the condition, effective treatment processes are unknown. Chemotherapy or radiotherapy may be effective.

Primary omental cancer is typically found at an advanced stage, but in some cases, tumors can be resected. However, only 10-20% of individuals survive 2 years after surgical removal.

Suggested MER for Evaluation:

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  Clinical history and physical examination that describes the diagnostic features of the impairment including a description of the size and stage of tumors;

• •

  Results of imaging (CT scan, MRI, ultrasound); and

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  Biopsy or needle aspiration information found in operative notes, pathology reports, summaries of hospitalization or other medical reports that include details of the surgical and pathological findings.

Suggested Listings for Evaluation:

DETERMINATION

LISTING

REMARKS

Meets

13.04

Primary greater omentum sarcomas must be of listing level severity.

Equals

13.04