C78: Secondary malignant neoplasm of respiratory and digestive organs
C78.5: Secondary malignant neoplasm of large intestine and rectum
The tissue in the body is made up of cells. With cancer, the cells multiply uncontrollably, which leads to a malignant neoplasm (abnormal growth of tissue) developing. The cancer cells can destroy the healthy tissue and spread throughout the body.
The cancer cells have spread in your body and multiplied at another site. These are called metastases.
The large intestine (colon) is like an upside down U in the abdomen. The first part lies in the lower right corner of the abdomen. Then it continues upwards and runs across from right to left. Then it descends again. There then follows an S-shaped part located on the bottom left side of the abdomen, which then merges into the rectum. The rectum is the last section of the large intestine (colon). The large intestine is where water and minerals are removed from the partially digested food (chyme). The stool is then excreted via the rectum.
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The information provided on this page is for general educational purposes only. It is not intended for self-diagnosis and does not replace professional medical advice. Always consult your doctor or a qualified healthcare provider with any questions or concerns about your health.
If you see an ICD diagnosis code (e.g., on a medical report), be aware that doctors may also include additional indicators to express diagnostic certainty. Only a healthcare professional can interpret these codes accurately in the context of your individual case.
For a complete understanding of your condition and what the diagnosis means for you, please speak directly with your doctor.