Malignant neoplasm of pineal gland

This code signifies a primary cancerous tumor originating in the pineal gland, a small endocrine gland located deep in the brain. These neoplasms are typically aggressive and can lead to symptoms related to increased intracranial pressure or hormonal imbalances. Histologically, pineal gland malignancies often include pineoblastomas, pineocytomas with anaplastic features, or germ cell tumors.

Use this code when documentation clearly indicates a primary malignant neoplasm of the pineal gland. This diagnosis is typically established through imaging studies (e.g., MRI, CT scan) followed by a biopsy or surgical resection with histopathological confirmation. Supporting documentation should specify the malignant nature and the pineal gland as the primary site.

• Always confirm the malignancy and primary site; benign pineal gland tumors (e.g., pineocytoma) are coded differently.
• If the malignancy is secondary (metastatic to the pineal gland), use the appropriate secondary malignant neoplasm code along with the primary site.
• Sequence this code as the primary diagnosis when it is the reason for the encounter, followed by any associated neurological or endocrine manifestations.