Echinococcosis, unspecified
ICD-10 B67.4 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of echinococcosis, unspecified.
Echinococcosis is a parasitic infection caused by tapeworms of the genus Echinococcus. The most common species affecting humans are Echinococcus granulosus and Echinococcus multilocularis. The infection typically occurs through the ingestion of eggs found in contaminated food, water, or soil, often associated with contact with infected animals, particularly dogs and livestock. The disease can lead to the formation of cysts in various organs, most commonly the liver and lungs, which can cause significant morbidity. Symptoms may vary widely depending on the location and size of the cysts, ranging from asymptomatic to severe complications such as cyst rupture, anaphylaxis, or secondary bacterial infections. Diagnosis is often made through imaging studies such as ultrasound, CT, or MRI, alongside serological tests. Treatment typically involves surgical intervention to remove cysts, and antiparasitic medications such as albendazole or mebendazole may be used as adjunct therapy to prevent recurrence. The unspecified nature of this code indicates that the specific type of echinococcosis has not been determined, necessitating further clinical evaluation.
Detailed clinical history, imaging results, and treatment plans must be documented.
Patients presenting with abdominal pain, respiratory symptoms, or incidental findings on imaging.
Consideration of travel history and exposure to endemic areas is crucial for accurate diagnosis.
Operative reports detailing cyst removal and any complications encountered during surgery.
Patients requiring surgical intervention for large cysts or complications such as rupture.
Documentation of pre-operative imaging and post-operative follow-up is essential.
Used when a patient with echinococcosis requires gallbladder removal due to cysts.
Operative report detailing the procedure and indication.
Surgeons must document the reason for surgery related to echinococcosis.
Echinococcosis is primarily caused by ingesting eggs of Echinococcus species, often through contaminated food or water.
Diagnosis is typically made through imaging studies such as ultrasound or CT scans, along with serological tests.
Treatment may involve surgical removal of cysts and the use of antiparasitic medications like albendazole.
