Malignant neoplasm of spinal meninges

This code signifies a primary cancerous tumor originating in the meninges that surround the spinal cord. These meninges are the protective layers of tissue (dura mater, arachnoid mater, and pia mater) that encase the central nervous system. The malignancy can affect any of these layers within the spinal canal.

Use this code when documentation clearly indicates a primary malignant neoplasm of the spinal meninges, confirmed by pathology or imaging. This diagnosis is typically made following neurological symptoms such as back pain, weakness, or sensory deficits, and subsequent diagnostic workup including MRI with contrast and biopsy.

• Differentiate from secondary (metastatic) spinal meningeal involvement; this code is for primary malignancy.
• Ensure documentation specifies "spinal" meninges, not intracranial meninges, as these have different codes.
• Review pathology reports for definitive diagnosis of malignancy and primary site.