Echinococcosis
ICD-10 B67 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of echinococcosis.
Echinococcosis is a parasitic infection caused by the larval stage of tapeworms belonging to 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. Echinococcosis can manifest in two primary forms: cystic echinococcosis (CE), characterized by the formation of cysts in organs such as the liver and lungs, and alveolar echinococcosis (AE), which is more aggressive and resembles a malignant tumor, primarily affecting the liver. Symptoms may vary based on the cyst's location and size, ranging from asymptomatic to severe abdominal pain, jaundice, or respiratory distress. 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 in some cases, antiparasitic medications like albendazole or mebendazole may be used to manage the infection.
Detailed patient history, exposure risk, imaging results, and treatment plans.
Patients presenting with abdominal pain, respiratory symptoms, or incidental findings on imaging.
Ensure clarity in distinguishing between cystic and alveolar forms for accurate coding.
Operative reports detailing cyst removal, pathology reports, and post-operative follow-up.
Surgical intervention for large cysts causing symptoms or complications.
Document the surgical approach and any complications to support coding.
Used when cysts are located in the gallbladder or causing biliary obstruction.
Operative report detailing the procedure and indication.
Ensure clear documentation of the relationship between echinococcosis and the surgical intervention.
Common symptoms include abdominal pain, jaundice, respiratory distress, and in some cases, asymptomatic presentations. Symptoms depend on the location and size of the cysts.
