ICD-11 Codes
for 2A00.20 - Tumours of the pineal gland or pineal region

Teodor Jurukovski January 1, 1970

Fact checked by: Teodor Jurukovski

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Alternative Names for Tumours of the Pineal Gland or Pineal Region

When discussing tumours of the pineal gland or pineal region, various terms are used in clinical practice and medical literature. These include "pineal region tumors," "pineal tumors," and "tumours of the pineal gland." The official ICD-11 classification uses the precise terminology "Tumours of the pineal gland or pineal region" for code 2A00.20, ensuring consistent medical record-keeping and billing.

Understanding Tumours of the Pineal Gland or Pineal Region (ICD-11 Code 2A00.20)

Tumours of the pineal gland or pineal region, identified by the ICD-11 code 2A00.20, are primary neoplasms originating within the central nervous system (CNS). These rare growths begin in or around the pineal gland, a small endocrine structure located deep within the brain. While they start in the pineal region, these tumours have the potential to spread to other parts of the CNS, including the spinal cord. The behaviour and prognosis of these tumours can vary significantly, with classifications ranging from slow-growing, low-grade types (such as pineocytomas) to aggressive, malignant forms (like pineoblastomas) that tend to invade surrounding tissues rapidly. Tumours in this category are often graded based on their cellular characteristics and growth patterns, influencing treatment strategies and expected outcomes. The exact causes for most pineal region tumours remain unknown, although certain genetic predispositions, like inherited retinoblastoma, are associated with specific types such as pineoblastomas.

Recognising Symptoms of Pineal Region Tumours

The symptoms associated with tumours of the pineal gland or pineal region (ICD-11 code 2A00.20) are largely dependent on the tumour's size, location, and rate of growth. A common presentation involves increased intracranial pressure, often due to the tumour obstructing the flow of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), leading to a condition known as hydrocephalus. Patients may experience:

• Persistent headaches
• Nausea and vomiting
• Difficulties with eye movements, such as impaired upward gaze (sometimes referred to as Parinaud syndrome)
• Problems with balance and coordination
• Challenges with walking
• Visual disturbances

Fast-growing tumours can lead to a rapid worsening of these symptoms, necessitating prompt medical evaluation.

Diagnosing Tumours of the Pineal Gland or Pineal Region

Establishing a diagnosis for tumours of the pineal gland or pineal region (ICD-11 code 2A00.20) typically involves a multi-faceted approach. A definitive diagnosis often requires obtaining a tissue sample through surgery for examination by a neuropathologist. Advanced neuroimaging techniques are crucial for identifying the presence, size, and location of the tumour. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans, particularly those using contrast agents, are highly effective in visualising these tumours as solid masses. Computerised tomography (CT) scans may reveal calcifications within the tumour. In some cases, proton MR spectroscopy can provide specific diagnostic signatures. To assess the potential for spread within the central nervous system, contrast-enhanced MRI of the entire craniospinal axis is often recommended. Diagnostic criteria may also include specific immunohistochemical staining patterns and, in complex cases, DNA methylation profiling.

Coding and Documentation for Pineal Gland Tumours

Accurate medical coding and thorough documentation are essential for billing and patient care related to tumours of the pineal gland or pineal region. The primary ICD-11 code for this condition is 2A00.20. This code falls under the Neoplasms chapter (Chapter 02) of the ICD-11 classification system. When documenting patient cases, healthcare providers should meticulously record details such as the tumour's grade, specific histological type (e.g., papillary tumour of the pineal region, which may have associated codes like XH3904), location within the pineal region, and any evidence of spread (metastasis) within the CNS. This detailed information supports accurate billing and ensures appropriate medical record-keeping. Phrases like "ICD-11 code for Tumours of the pineal gland or pineal region" and "coding Tumours of the pineal gland or pineal region" are relevant for search queries related to this diagnostic code.

Management Strategies for Pineal Region Tumours

The management of tumours of the pineal gland or pineal region (ICD-11 code 2A00.20) is tailored to the specific type, grade, and extent of the tumour. If feasible, surgery is often the initial treatment, aiming to obtain a tissue diagnosis and remove as much of the tumour as possible while minimising neurological deficits. Following surgical intervention, further treatment modalities may include radiation therapy, chemotherapy, or participation in clinical trials investigating novel therapies such as targeted drugs or immunotherapies. The choice of treatment is determined by the patient's overall health, age, the amount of tumour remaining after surgery, and the tumour's specific characteristics. For certain types, like papillary tumours, gross total resection and adjuvant radiotherapy are key components of care, while the role of chemotherapy is still being defined.