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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesB69.9

B69.9

Cysticercosis, unspecified

BILLABLE STATUSYes
IMPLEMENTATION DATEOctober 1, 2015
LAST UPDATED09/05/2025

Code Description

ICD-10 B69.9 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of cysticercosis, unspecified.

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 arises when humans ingest eggs of the tapeworm, typically through contaminated food or water. The larvae can migrate to various tissues, including the brain, muscles, and eyes, leading to a range of clinical manifestations. Symptoms may vary widely depending on the location of the cysts; for instance, neurocysticercosis can cause seizures, headaches, and neurological deficits, while cysts in the muscles may be asymptomatic or cause localized pain. Diagnosis is often made through imaging studies such as CT or MRI scans, serological tests, and clinical evaluation. Treatment typically involves antiparasitic medications such as albendazole or praziquantel, along with symptomatic management. The unspecified nature of this code indicates that the specific location or severity of the cysticercosis is not documented, which can complicate treatment and management strategies.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Variability in clinical presentation based on cyst location.
  • Need for precise documentation to differentiate from other parasitic infections.
  • Potential for co-infections that may complicate coding.
  • Variability in treatment protocols based on severity and location of cysts.

Audit Risk Factors

  • Insufficient documentation of symptoms or cyst location.
  • Inconsistent coding practices across different providers.
  • Failure to document treatment plans or follow-up care.
  • Misclassification of cysticercosis with other helminthic infections.

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Infectious Disease

Documentation Requirements

Detailed clinical history, imaging results, and treatment plans.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients presenting with neurological symptoms or muscle pain.

Billing Considerations

Ensure clarity in documentation regarding the cyst's location and associated symptoms.

Neurology

Documentation Requirements

Neurological assessments, imaging studies, and treatment responses.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients with seizures or cognitive changes due to neurocysticercosis.

Billing Considerations

Document neurological deficits and imaging findings to support coding.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use B69.9 When
  • According to ICD
  • 10 coding guidelines, B69
  • 9 is used when the specific site of cysticercosis is not documented
  • Coders should ensure that all relevant clinical information is captured to support the diagnosis and treatment plan

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use B69.9 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related CPT Codes

96401CPT Code

Chemotherapy administration

Clinical Scenario

Used when administering antiparasitic treatment for cysticercosis.

Documentation Requirements

Document the drug administered, dosage, and patient response.

Specialty Considerations

Infectious disease specialists should ensure comprehensive treatment documentation.

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 treatment tracking. However, the unspecified code B69.9 may lead to challenges in understanding the full clinical picture.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of cysticercosis, improving the accuracy of data collection and treatment tracking. However, the unspecified code B69.9 may lead to challenges in understanding the full clinical picture.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of cysticercosis, improving the accuracy of data collection and treatment tracking. However, the unspecified code B69.9 may lead to challenges in understanding the full clinical picture.

Resources

Clinical References

  • •
    CDC - Cysticercosis

Coding & Billing References

  • •
    CDC - Cysticercosis

Frequently Asked Questions

What is cysticercosis?

Cysticercosis is a parasitic infection caused by the larval stage of the Taenia solium tapeworm, leading to cyst formation in various tissues.

How is cysticercosis diagnosed?

Diagnosis is typically made through imaging studies, serological tests, and clinical evaluation of symptoms.

What are the treatment options for cysticercosis?

Treatment often involves antiparasitic medications such as albendazole or praziquantel, along with symptomatic management.