Mesothelioma of peritoneum

This code represents a rare and aggressive cancer originating from the mesothelial cells lining the peritoneum, the membrane that covers the abdominal organs. It is typically associated with asbestos exposure and often presents with ascites, abdominal pain, and weight loss.

Assign this code when documentation explicitly states a diagnosis of peritoneal mesothelioma. This diagnosis is usually confirmed through biopsy and histopathological examination, often following imaging studies like CT or MRI showing peritoneal thickening or masses.

• Differentiate from other primary or metastatic peritoneal malignancies; this code is specific to mesothelioma.
• Review pathology reports carefully for definitive diagnosis of mesothelioma versus other peritoneal cancers.
• Do not use this code if the documentation indicates a malignant neoplasm of the soft tissue of the peritoneum that is not mesothelioma (refer to C48.-).