Name of the Condition

• Other Specified Nutritional Anemias
• ICD-10 Code D53.8

Summary

Other specified nutritional anemias refer to a group of anemia types that result from dietary deficiencies, excluding those specifically classified under other codes like iron, vitamin B12, and folate deficiency anemias. These anemias occur when there is a lack of nutritional elements essential for red blood cell production or function.

Causes

• Deficient intake or absorption of essential nutrients not covered by other specific anemia categories.
• Diets lacking diversity or poor in nutritional quality.

Risk Factors

• Poor nutritional status due to limited access to diverse foods.
• Medical conditions affecting nutrient absorption (e.g., celiac disease).
• Special diets (e.g., strict vegetarian or vegan) without adequate nutritional planning.

Symptoms

• Fatigue and weakness
• Pallor or pale skin
• Shortness of breath
• Dizziness or lightheadedness
• Cold hands and feet

Diagnosis

• Complete blood count (CBC) for checking red blood cell parameters.
• Detailed dietary history and assessment.
• Nutritional panels to identify deficiencies in uncommon nutrients influencing anemia.

Treatment Options

• Dietary modifications to include adequate nutrients.
• Nutritional supplements addressing specific deficiencies.
• In severe cases, medical intervention to treat underlying absorption issues.

Prognosis and Follow-Up

• Prognosis is generally excellent with proper nutritional intervention.
• Regular follow-ups are essential to monitor hemoglobin levels and nutritional status.

Complications

• Untreated anemia can lead to severe fatigue, heart problems, and complications during pregnancy.

Lifestyle & Prevention

• A balanced diet rich in a variety of nutrients.
• Regular dietary assessments to ensure intake of all essential nutrients.
• Education about nutritional requirements, especially for individuals with restrictive diets.

When to Seek Professional Help

• Persistent symptoms of anemia despite dietary changes.
• Signs of severe anemia, such as chest pain, fainting, or rapid heartbeat.

Additional Resources

• Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics: EatRight.org
• American Society of Hematology: Hematology.org

Tips for Medical Coders

• Ensure that the anemia does not fit under more specific deficiency codes.
• Review patient dietary and medical history for proper classification.
• Avoid misclassification by differentiating this from more commonly coded anemias like iron deficiency (D50) or folate deficiency (D52).