Search all medical codes
Starvation, sequela
ICD10CM code
#### Name of the Condition
- Starvation, Sequela (ICD-10-CM Code: T73.0XXS)
#### Summary
Starvation, sequela refers to the long-term consequences of prolonged lack of adequate nutrition. It occurs when the body experiences lasting effects after recovering from an episode of severe malnutrition or starvation.
#### Causes
- Chronic lack of access to nutritious food
- Conditions affecting nutrient absorption such as gastrointestinal diseases
- Severe, untreated eating disorders
- Extreme poverty or social neglect
#### Risk Factors
- Socioeconomic factors leading to food insecurity
- History of mental health conditions related to eating
- Medical conditions affecting nutrient uptake or metabolism
#### Symptoms
- Persistent fatigue and weakness
- Stunted growth and development (in children)
- Weakened immune response leading to frequent infections
- Cognitive impairments or difficulty concentrating
#### Diagnosis
- Detailed nutritional and medical history assessment
- Blood tests to check for deficiencies in essential nutrients
- Physical examination focusing on signs of malnutrition and its sequelae
#### Treatment Options
- Nutritional rehabilitation and dietary planning to restore balance
- Supplementation of specific vitamins and minerals
- Therapy for any underlying mental health issues
- Regular medical monitoring to address ongoing health concerns
#### Prognosis and Follow-Up
- Prognosis largely depends on the severity and duration of the initial starvation episode.
- Regular follow-up is crucial to monitor recovery and prevent relapse into malnutrition.
- Some sequelae might require long-term management and rehabilitation.
#### Complications
- Permanent physical or cognitive impairments if not managed properly
- Increased risk of chronic diseases such as osteoporosis or cardiovascular issues
#### Lifestyle & Prevention
- Promoting access to balanced and nutritious food
- Education on healthy eating habits
- Early intervention in cases of detected malnutrition
#### When to Seek Professional Help
- Unexplainable weight loss or chronic fatigue
- Symptoms of malnutrition or any persistent health issues post-starvation
- Mental health symptoms that might affect eating patterns
#### Additional Resources
- World Health Organization (WHO): [Nutrition](https://www.who.int/health-topics/nutrition)
- American Society for Nutrition: [Nutrition Research](https://nutrition.org/)
#### Tips for Medical Coders
- Ensure the correct ICD-10-CM code T73.0XXS is applied specifically for sequela, indicating the condition is a residual effect of previous starvation.
- Verify documentation clearly states long-term effects to differentiate from acute starvation coding.