Ascariasis, unspecified, is a parasitic infection caused by the Ascaris lumbricoides worm. It is prevalent in areas with poor sanitation and can lead to significant gastrointestinal symptoms and complications. Accurate coding with ICD-10 Code B77.9 is essential for proper diagnosis, documentation, medical billing, and public health reporting, ensuring that healthcare providers can effectively manage and treat this condition.
What is ICD-10 Code B77.9 for Ascariasis, unspecified?
ICD-10 Code B77.9 represents Ascariasis, unspecified, a helminthic infection caused by the Ascaris lumbricoides parasite. This code is used when the specific type or severity of ascariasis is not documented. It is crucial for clinical documentation and billing, particularly in cases where patients present with gastrointestinal symptoms or complications related to this infection.
ICD-10 Code B77.9 – Clinical Definition and Explanation of Ascariasis, unspecified
Ascariasis is caused by ingesting Ascaris lumbricoides eggs, which hatch in the intestines and can migrate to various organs. The condition can lead to malnutrition, intestinal obstruction, and other serious complications, necessitating medical attention.
Key Clinical Features:
- Abdominal pain and discomfort
- Nausea and vomiting
- Diarrhea or constipation
- Weight loss and malnutrition
ICD-10 Code B77.9 for Ascariasis, unspecified – SOAP Notes & Clinical Use
ICD-10 Code B77.9 is utilized in SOAP notes to document the patient's symptoms, assessment findings, and treatment plans related to ascariasis. This code is relevant in both acute and chronic care settings, ensuring comprehensive documentation of the patient's condition.
What Does ICD-10 Code B77.9 for Ascariasis, unspecified Mean in SOAP Notes?
In SOAP notes, ICD-10 Code B77.9 connects subjective patient-reported symptoms and objective clinical findings to a formal diagnosis of ascariasis. This code supports continuity of care, facilitates accurate billing, and meets EHR documentation standards.
Treatment Options for ICD-10 Code B77.9 – Ascariasis, unspecified
Ascariasis requires prompt treatment to prevent complications. Hospitalization may be necessary in severe cases, particularly for symptomatic patients.
Antibiotic Therapy:
- Albendazole: 400 mg orally once
- Mebendazole: 500 mg orally once
- Pyrantel pamoate: 11 mg/kg orally, max 1 g
Supportive Care:
- Hydration and electrolyte management
- Nutritional support for malnourished patients
- Monitoring for intestinal obstruction
Infection Control:
- Educate patients on hygiene practices
- Ensure proper sanitation in affected areas
- Monitor for outbreaks in community settings
How to Document Symptoms of Ascariasis, unspecified (ICD-10 B77.9) in SOAP Notes
Subjective:
- Patient reports abdominal pain and cramping.
- History of travel to endemic areas.
- Complaints of nausea and intermittent diarrhea.
- Notable weight loss over the past month.
Objective:
- Abdominal tenderness on palpation.
- Presence of worms in stool sample.
- Vital signs: stable, afebrile.
- Weight loss of 5 kg since last visit.
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SOAP Note Guidelines for Diagnosing Ascariasis, unspecified (ICD-10 Code B77.9)
Assessment:
- Diagnosis: Ascariasis, unspecified, moderate severity.
- ICD-10 Code: B77.9.
- Contributing factors: Poor sanitation, travel history.
- Symptoms consistent with gastrointestinal infection.
Plan:
- Initiate treatment with albendazole 400 mg orally.
- Provide dietary counseling to address malnutrition.
- Schedule follow-up in 2 weeks to monitor symptoms.
- Educate on hygiene practices to prevent reinfection.
Treatment & Plan Section for ICD-10 Code B77.9 – Ascariasis, unspecified
- First-line treatment includes albendazole or mebendazole.
- Encourage dietary modifications to improve nutritional status.
- Monitor for signs of intestinal obstruction or severe symptoms.
- Follow-up appointments to assess treatment efficacy and symptom resolution.
Using ICD-10 Code B77.9 for Ascariasis, unspecified in Billing & SOAP Note Compliance
- Ensure accurate documentation of symptoms and history in SOAP notes.
- Use B77.9 for unspecified cases without specific details.
- Align treatment plans with clinical guidelines for justified billing.
- Include relevant CPT codes that correspond to the services provided.
Related ICD-10 Codes Often Used with Ascariasis, unspecified
ICD-10 Code B77.9 in Medical Billing and Insurance for Ascariasis, unspecified
ICD-10 Code B77.9 is critical in billing for hospital, ER, or infectious disease care related to ascariasis.
Billing Notes:
- Document all relevant patient history and symptoms to support the diagnosis.
- Use B77.9 in settings where specific details of ascariasis are not available.
- Ensure that treatment plans are clearly outlined in the medical record.
- Include any relevant laboratory results to substantiate the diagnosis.
Common CPT Pairings:
| CPT Code | Description |
|---|---|
| 99213 | Established patient office visit, level 3. |
| 87070 | Culture, bacterial; any source. |
| 87491 | Infectious agent detection by nucleic acid (DNA or RNA); parasitic. |
Frequently Asked Questions
Common Questions About Using ICD-10 Code B77.9 for Ascariasis, unspecified
What are the common symptoms of ascariasis?
Common symptoms of ascariasis include abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and weight loss. Some patients may also experience intestinal obstruction due to the presence of the worms.
How is ascariasis diagnosed?
Ascariasis is diagnosed through clinical evaluation and laboratory tests, including stool examination for eggs or adult worms. Imaging studies may be used to assess complications.
Is ascariasis contagious?
Ascariasis is not directly contagious; it is transmitted through ingestion of contaminated food or water containing Ascaris eggs. Good hygiene and sanitation practices can help prevent infection.
What is the treatment for ascariasis?
Treatment for ascariasis typically involves antiparasitic medications such as albendazole or mebendazole. Supportive care may be necessary for symptomatic patients.
