ICD-10: B37.82

Candidal enteritis, classified under ICD-10-CM code B37.82, refers to an infection of the intestines caused by Candida species, primarily Candida albicans. This condition is part of a broader category of candidiasis, which encompasses various infections caused by yeast-like fungi.

Clinical Description

Etiology

Candidal enteritis is typically associated with an overgrowth of Candida, which can occur due to several factors, including:
- Antibiotic Use: Broad-spectrum antibiotics can disrupt the normal gut flora, allowing Candida to proliferate.
- Immunocompromised States: Individuals with weakened immune systems, such as those with HIV/AIDS, cancer, or diabetes, are at higher risk.
- Underlying Conditions: Conditions like inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) or prolonged use of corticosteroids can predispose patients to this infection.

Symptoms

Patients with candidal enteritis may present with a variety of gastrointestinal symptoms, including:
- Abdominal pain or cramping
- Diarrhea, which may be watery or contain mucus
- Nausea and vomiting
- Bloating and gas
- In severe cases, it may lead to intestinal perforation or sepsis, particularly in immunocompromised individuals.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of candidal enteritis typically involves:
- Clinical Evaluation: A thorough history and physical examination to assess symptoms and risk factors.
- Laboratory Tests: Stool cultures may be performed to identify the presence of Candida species. Blood tests can also help assess the immune status of the patient.
- Imaging Studies: In some cases, imaging studies like CT scans may be utilized to evaluate the extent of the infection or rule out other gastrointestinal conditions.

Treatment

Management of candidal enteritis generally includes:
- Antifungal Therapy: Medications such as fluconazole or itraconazole are commonly prescribed to combat the fungal infection.
- Supportive Care: This may involve hydration and electrolyte management, especially in cases of severe diarrhea.
- Addressing Underlying Conditions: It is crucial to manage any predisposing factors, such as adjusting antibiotic use or treating immunosuppression.

Conclusion

Candidal enteritis, represented by ICD-10 code B37.82, is a significant condition that can lead to serious complications if not promptly diagnosed and treated. Understanding its etiology, symptoms, and management strategies is essential for healthcare providers to effectively address this infection, particularly in at-risk populations. Early intervention and appropriate antifungal therapy are key to improving patient outcomes and preventing severe complications associated with this condition.

Candidal enteritis, classified under ICD-10 code B37.82, is a fungal infection of the intestines caused by Candida species, most commonly Candida albicans. This condition can occur in various patient populations, particularly those with compromised immune systems or underlying health conditions. Below is a detailed overview of the clinical presentation, signs, symptoms, and patient characteristics associated with candidal enteritis.

Clinical Presentation

Candidal enteritis typically presents with a range of gastrointestinal symptoms that may vary in severity. The infection can be acute or chronic, depending on the patient's overall health and the presence of predisposing factors.

Signs and Symptoms

1. Gastrointestinal Symptoms:
   - Abdominal Pain: Patients often report cramping or generalized abdominal discomfort.
   - Diarrhea: Frequent, watery stools may occur, sometimes with a foul odor.
   - Nausea and Vomiting: These symptoms can accompany abdominal pain and diarrhea.
   - Bloating and Flatulence: Patients may experience increased gas and a feeling of fullness.

2. Systemic Symptoms:
   - Fever: A low-grade fever may be present, particularly in more severe cases.
   - Fatigue: General malaise and fatigue are common, reflecting the body’s response to infection.

3. Signs of Dehydration: In cases of severe diarrhea, signs such as dry mucous membranes, decreased urine output, and dizziness may be observed.

Patient Characteristics

Candidal enteritis is more prevalent in certain patient populations, particularly those with specific risk factors:

1. Immunocompromised Individuals:
   - Patients with HIV/AIDS, cancer, or those undergoing immunosuppressive therapy (e.g., chemotherapy, corticosteroids) are at higher risk due to weakened immune defenses.

2. Diabetics:
   - Individuals with poorly controlled diabetes mellitus may have an increased susceptibility to fungal infections, including candidiasis.

3. Patients with Gastrointestinal Disorders:
   - Conditions such as inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) or those who have undergone gastrointestinal surgery may predispose individuals to candidal infections.

4. Antibiotic Use:
   - Prolonged use of broad-spectrum antibiotics can disrupt normal gut flora, allowing Candida to overgrow and lead to enteritis.

5. Age Factors:
   - Infants and the elderly are particularly vulnerable due to immature or declining immune systems, respectively.

Conclusion

Candidal enteritis, represented by ICD-10 code B37.82, is characterized by a range of gastrointestinal and systemic symptoms, particularly in patients with compromised immune systems or other risk factors. Recognizing the clinical presentation and understanding the patient characteristics associated with this condition is crucial for timely diagnosis and management. If candidal enteritis is suspected, healthcare providers should consider the patient's overall health status, history of antibiotic use, and any underlying conditions that may contribute to the infection.

Candidal enteritis, designated by the ICD-10-CM code B37.82, refers to an infection of the intestines caused by Candida species, primarily Candida albicans. This condition is part of a broader category of candidiasis, which can affect various body sites. Below are alternative names and related terms associated with this diagnosis.

Alternative Names for Candidal Enteritis

1. Candida Enteritis: A direct synonym that emphasizes the infection's location in the intestines.
2. Intestinal Candidiasis: This term highlights the candidiasis infection specifically within the intestinal tract.
3. Candidiasis of the Intestines: A descriptive term that indicates the presence of Candida infection in the intestinal area.

Related Terms and Concepts

1. Candidiasis: A general term for infections caused by Candida species, which can affect various body parts, including the mouth (oral thrush), skin, and vagina, in addition to the intestines.
2. Gastrointestinal Candidiasis: This term encompasses candidiasis affecting the gastrointestinal tract, which includes the esophagus, stomach, and intestines.
3. Fungal Enteritis: A broader term that can refer to enteritis caused by any fungal organism, including Candida.
4. Opportunistic Infection: Candidal enteritis is often classified as an opportunistic infection, particularly in immunocompromised individuals, such as those with HIV/AIDS or undergoing chemotherapy.
5. Candidemia: While not directly synonymous, this term refers to the presence of Candida in the bloodstream, which can lead to systemic infections, including those affecting the intestines.

Clinical Context

Candidal enteritis is often seen in patients with underlying conditions that compromise the immune system, making them more susceptible to fungal infections. Understanding the various terms associated with this condition can aid healthcare professionals in diagnosis, treatment, and coding for insurance purposes.

In summary, while B37.82 specifically refers to candidal enteritis, the terms and concepts surrounding it reflect the broader implications of candidiasis and its impact on gastrointestinal health.

Candidal enteritis, classified under ICD-10 code B37.82, refers to an infection of the intestines caused by Candida species, most commonly Candida albicans. The diagnosis of candidal enteritis involves several criteria and considerations, which can be summarized as follows:

Clinical Presentation

1. Symptoms: Patients may present with gastrointestinal symptoms such as abdominal pain, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, and bloating. These symptoms can vary in severity and may mimic other gastrointestinal disorders, making clinical evaluation essential[1].

2. Risk Factors: A thorough assessment of risk factors is crucial. Individuals with compromised immune systems, such as those with HIV/AIDS, diabetes, or those undergoing immunosuppressive therapy, are at a higher risk for developing candidal infections, including enteritis[2].

Laboratory Testing

1. Stool Culture: A definitive diagnosis often requires laboratory confirmation. Stool cultures can be performed to identify the presence of Candida species. However, it is important to note that Candida can be a normal part of the gut flora, so the clinical context is vital for interpretation[3].

2. Endoscopy: In some cases, an endoscopic examination may be warranted. This procedure allows for direct visualization of the intestinal mucosa and the collection of biopsy samples, which can be tested for fungal elements[4].

3. Serological Tests: While not routinely used for candidal enteritis, serological tests for Candida antibodies may provide additional information, particularly in immunocompromised patients[5].

Imaging Studies

1. Radiological Imaging: Imaging studies, such as CT scans, may be utilized to rule out other causes of gastrointestinal symptoms and to assess for complications like abscesses or perforations that could arise from severe infections[6].

Differential Diagnosis

1. Exclusion of Other Conditions: It is essential to differentiate candidal enteritis from other gastrointestinal conditions, such as bacterial infections, inflammatory bowel disease, and other fungal infections. This may involve a combination of clinical evaluation, laboratory tests, and imaging studies[7].

Conclusion

The diagnosis of candidal enteritis (ICD-10 code B37.82) is multifaceted, relying on clinical symptoms, risk factors, laboratory testing, and imaging studies. A comprehensive approach is necessary to ensure accurate diagnosis and appropriate management, particularly in patients with underlying health conditions that predispose them to fungal infections. If candidal enteritis is suspected, healthcare providers should consider these criteria to guide their diagnostic process effectively.

Candidal enteritis, classified under ICD-10 code B37.82, refers to a fungal infection of the intestines caused by Candida species, most commonly Candida albicans. This condition can occur in individuals with compromised immune systems, such as those with diabetes, HIV/AIDS, or those undergoing immunosuppressive therapy. Understanding the standard treatment approaches for candidal enteritis is crucial for effective management and recovery.

Diagnosis and Assessment

Before initiating treatment, a thorough diagnosis is essential. This typically involves:

• Clinical Evaluation: Assessing symptoms such as abdominal pain, diarrhea, and nausea.
• Laboratory Tests: Stool cultures may be performed to identify the presence of Candida species. Blood tests can also help assess the immune status of the patient.
• Imaging Studies: In some cases, imaging studies like CT scans may be used to evaluate the extent of the infection and rule out other gastrointestinal conditions.

Standard Treatment Approaches

Antifungal Medications

The primary treatment for candidal enteritis involves antifungal therapy. Commonly used antifungal agents include:

• Fluconazole: This is often the first-line treatment due to its effectiveness against Candida species and its favorable safety profile. Dosage may vary based on the severity of the infection and the patient's overall health.
• Itraconazole: This may be used as an alternative, especially in cases where fluconazole is ineffective or contraindicated.
• Amphotericin B: In severe cases or when the patient is immunocompromised, this potent antifungal may be administered, typically in a hospital setting.

Supportive Care

In addition to antifungal therapy, supportive care is crucial for recovery:

• Fluid and Electrolyte Management: Patients may require intravenous fluids to prevent dehydration, especially if diarrhea is present.
• Nutritional Support: A diet low in sugars and refined carbohydrates may be recommended to help reduce the growth of Candida. In severe cases, enteral nutrition may be necessary.
• Monitoring: Regular monitoring of the patient's response to treatment and any potential side effects of medications is essential.

Addressing Underlying Conditions

Since candidal enteritis often occurs in individuals with underlying health issues, it is vital to manage these conditions effectively:

• Diabetes Management: Tight glycemic control can help reduce the risk of fungal infections.
• Immunosuppressive Therapy Adjustment: For patients on immunosuppressive drugs, a review of their medication regimen may be necessary to minimize the risk of opportunistic infections.

Conclusion

Candidal enteritis, while potentially serious, can be effectively managed with appropriate antifungal therapy and supportive care. Early diagnosis and treatment are key to preventing complications, particularly in immunocompromised patients. Regular follow-up and management of underlying health conditions are also critical to ensure a successful recovery and reduce the risk of recurrence. If symptoms persist or worsen despite treatment, further evaluation may be warranted to rule out other gastrointestinal disorders or complications.