ICD-10 Guide

B69.89

Cysticercosis of other sites

BILLABLE STATUSYes

IMPLEMENTATION DATEOctober 1, 2015

LAST UPDATED09/05/2025

Code Description

ICD-10 B69.89 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of cysticercosis of other sites.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Cysticercosis is a parasitic infection caused by the larval stage of the Taenia solium tapeworm, commonly known as the pork tapeworm. This condition occurs when humans ingest eggs of the parasite, typically through contaminated food or water. The larvae can migrate to various tissues in the body, leading to cysticercosis, which can affect the muscles, eyes, and central nervous system. Cysticercosis of other sites refers to infections that occur outside the commonly affected areas, such as the brain (neurocysticercosis) or subcutaneous tissues. Symptoms can vary widely depending on the location of the cysts and may include seizures, headaches, visual disturbances, or muscle pain. Diagnosis is often made through imaging studies, such as MRI or CT scans, and serological tests. Treatment typically involves antiparasitic medications like albendazole or praziquantel, along with symptomatic management. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial to prevent complications, particularly in cases involving the central nervous system.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

Variety of clinical presentations depending on the site of infection.
Differentiation from other parasitic infections.
Need for imaging studies for accurate diagnosis.
Potential for co-infections complicating the clinical picture.

Audit Risk Factors

Inadequate documentation of the specific site of infection.
Failure to document imaging studies that support the diagnosis.
Misclassification of cysticercosis as a different parasitic infection.
Lack of clarity in treatment plans and follow-up care.

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Infectious Disease

Documentation Requirements

Detailed clinical history, laboratory results, and imaging studies.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients presenting with seizures or neurological symptoms with a history of travel to endemic areas.

Billing Considerations

Ensure all relevant diagnostic tests are documented to support the diagnosis.

Neurology

Documentation Requirements

Neurological examination findings, imaging results, and treatment plans.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients with neurocysticercosis presenting with seizures or headaches.

Billing Considerations

Document the neurological impact and any associated symptoms for accurate coding.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use B69.89 When

According to ICD
10 guidelines, B69
89 should be used when cysticercosis is confirmed at sites other than the brain or eye
Documentation must clearly indicate the site of infection and any related symptoms

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use B69.89 When

Exclusion criteria include other specific parasitic infections that may mimic cysticercosis

Related CPT Codes

88305CPT Code

Pathology examination of tissue

Clinical Scenario

Used when tissue samples are taken for diagnosis of cysticercosis.

Documentation Requirements

Pathology report and clinical notes supporting the need for biopsy.

Specialty Considerations

Ensure that the specialty performing the procedure is documented.

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of cysticercosis, improving the accuracy of data collection and reimbursement processes. It has also facilitated better tracking of disease prevalence and treatment outcomes.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

reimbursement processes. It has also facilitated better tracking of disease prevalence and treatment outcomes.

Resources

Clinical References

•
CDC - Cysticercosis

Coding & Billing References

•
CDC - Cysticercosis

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the common symptoms of cysticercosis?

Common symptoms include seizures, headaches, muscle pain, and visual disturbances, depending on the location of the cysts.

How is cysticercosis diagnosed?

Diagnosis is typically made through imaging studies such as MRI or CT scans, along with serological tests.

What treatments are available for cysticercosis?

Treatment often involves antiparasitic medications like albendazole or praziquantel, and may require surgical intervention in severe cases.

ICD-10 B69.89 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of cysticercosis of other sites.