Malignant neoplasm of rectum

This code signifies the presence of a cancerous tumor originating in the rectum, the final section of the large intestine before the anus. This malignancy involves abnormal cell growth with the potential to invade surrounding tissues and metastasize to distant sites.

This code is appropriate for confirmed diagnoses of primary malignant neoplasms of the rectum, as documented by pathology reports or physician statements. It should be used when the patient is undergoing treatment for rectal cancer, or when the cancer is the primary reason for the encounter.

• Always confirm the malignancy with a pathology report.
• Distinguish from benign rectal polyps or other non-malignant rectal conditions.
• Consider sequencing with codes for metastasis if applicable, with the primary site (rectum) typically coded first.