ICD 10 CM B66.0 | Description & Clinical Information

ICD 10 B66.0 describes a medical condition known as opisthorchiasis, which is a type of food-borne parasitic infection caused by trematodes, specifically the Opisthorchis viverrini (Southeast Asian liver fluke) and O. felineus (cat liver fluke), that is transmitted through the consumption of raw or undercooked freshwater fish.

Official Description Of B66.0

The ICD 10 CM book defines ICD 10 code B66.0 as:

When To Use B66.0

The diagnosis describes by ICD 10 CM code B66.0 is opisthorchiasis, a disease caused by the fluke worm Opisthorchis viverrini or Opisthorchis felineus. This parasite is prevalent in Southeast Asia and Eastern Europe where people consume raw or undercooked fresh water fish. The symptoms of opisthorchiasis vary depending on the severity of the infection. Some patients may not have any symptoms, while others may experience indigestion, abdominal pain, diarrhea, or constipation.

In severe cases, the infection may lead to liver enlargement and malnutrition. Additionally, the inflammation of the bile ducts and gallbladder, or bile duct cancer may happen. Patients infected with O. felineus may have fever, facial swelling, swollen lymph nodes, joint pains, and skin rash.

Diagnosing opisthorchiasis involves a careful assessment of the patient’s exposure history, physical examination, and laboratory tests. The patient may be asked about their consumption of fresh water fish and travel history to endemic areas. The provider may perform a stool examination to detect the presence of fluke eggs. Imaging tests such as ultrasound, CT scan, or MRI may be used to assess the extent of biliary tract involvement. Moreover, cholangiography or endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) may be performed as well.

Treatment for opisthorchiasis involves the use of the drug praziquantel. The patient may be prescribed this medication for two to three days, with a high dose. Surgical treatment may be necessary in cases of biliary tract involvement or obstruction, where removal of flukes and stones may be required. Patients may be educated to properly cook fresh water fish before consumption to prevent future infections.

Medical coders play a vital role in the management of healthcare records. They transform patients’ medical histories into a standardized language that is universally understood. Through their skills in medical coding, they assign ICD 10 codes and other codes that physicians and healthcare providers use for billing, research, and policy-making purposes.

In conclusion, opisthorchiasis is a parasitic disease caused by the fluke worm O. viverrini or O. felineus. The diagnosis is made based on the patient’s exposure history, signs, and symptoms, and laboratory tests. Treatment options include the use of medication and surgical management when appropriate. Medical coders should stay up-to-date with the latest coding standards and guidelines to ensure accurate and comprehensive coding of patient medical records.