Unspecified severe protein-calorie malnutrition
Chapter 4:Endocrine, nutritional and metabolic diseases
ICD-10 E43 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of unspecified severe protein-calorie malnutrition.
Unspecified severe protein-calorie malnutrition (E43) is a condition characterized by a significant deficiency in both protein and calorie intake, leading to a state of malnutrition that can severely impact an individual's health. This condition is often seen in populations with limited access to adequate nutrition, such as in cases of famine, chronic illness, or socioeconomic factors. Protein-energy malnutrition can manifest in various forms, including kwashiorkor and marasmus. Kwashiorkor is primarily associated with protein deficiency despite adequate caloric intake, leading to symptoms such as edema, irritability, and skin lesions. Marasmus, on the other hand, results from a severe deficiency in both protein and calories, leading to significant weight loss, muscle wasting, and a frail appearance. The diagnosis of unspecified severe protein-calorie malnutrition is typically made when specific causes of malnutrition cannot be identified, necessitating a comprehensive assessment of dietary intake, clinical symptoms, and underlying health conditions. This code is crucial for capturing the severity of malnutrition in patients, which can influence treatment plans and healthcare resource allocation.
Detailed dietary assessments, patient history, and clinical evaluations.
Patients with chronic illnesses, elderly patients with poor appetite, and those in rehabilitation settings.
Ensure that all aspects of the patient's nutritional status are documented, including any interventions or dietary modifications.
Growth charts, developmental assessments, and family dietary history.
Children with failure to thrive, those from low-income families, and those with chronic health issues affecting nutrition.
Documenting the child's growth patterns and any interventions taken to address nutritional deficiencies.
Used when a patient is referred for dietary management due to malnutrition.
Document the patient's nutritional assessment and treatment plan.
Nutrition specialists should ensure that all dietary interventions are clearly documented.
Kwashiorkor is primarily due to protein deficiency with adequate caloric intake, characterized by edema and skin changes, while marasmus results from severe deficiency in both protein and calories, leading to significant weight loss and muscle wasting.
