B78.0 Intestinal strongyloidiasis

Name of the Condition

• Intestinal Strongyloidiasis
• Also known as Strongyloides stercoralis infection

Summary

Intestinal strongyloidiasis is a parasitic infection caused by the nematode Strongyloides stercoralis, leading to chronic gastrointestinal symptoms and, in severe cases, systemic illness.

Causes

The condition is caused by infection with the Strongyloides stercoralis parasite. It typically enters the human body through skin contact with contaminated soil.

Risk Factors

• Residing in or traveling to tropical and subtropical regions.
• Walking barefoot on contaminated soil.
• Immunocompromised state, such as due to HIV/AIDS or long-term corticosteroid use.

Symptoms

• Abdominal pain and bloating
• Diarrhea or constipation
• Skin rash
• Cough and wheezing (if larval migration occurs to the lungs)

Diagnosis

• Microscopic examination of stool samples to detect larvae.
• Serological tests to identify specific antibodies.
• Molecular tests (PCR) for more accurate detection in difficult cases.

Treatment Options

• Ivermectin is the primary treatment, effectively eradicating the parasite.
• Albendazole can be used as an alternative in some cases.
• Treatments help relieve symptoms and eliminate the parasite from the body.

Prognosis and Follow-Up

• With appropriate treatment, the prognosis is generally good.
• Re-infection can occur; regular follow-ups are important, especially for individuals in endemic areas.

Complications

• Hyperinfection syndrome, particularly in immunocompromised patients, leading to a potentially fatal condition.
• Secondary bacterial infections due to parasite migration.

Lifestyle & Prevention

• Avoid walking barefoot in endemic areas.
• Improved sanitation and proper sewage disposal.
• Health education about risks in endemic regions to reduce infection rates.

When to Seek Professional Help

• Persistent gastrointestinal symptoms, especially after travel to endemic areas.
• Skin rashes or respiratory issues following potential exposure.

Additional Resources

• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC): Strongyloides
• World Health Organization (WHO): Soil-transmitted helminth infections

Tips for Medical Coders

• Ensure the diagnosis is based on confirmed laboratory findings for accurate coding.
• Be mindful of differentiating intestinal strongyloidiasis from other types of parasitic infections.
• Avoid using unspecified codes where more specific coding is possible (B78.0 for strongyloidiasis).