ICD-10: B71.0

Hymenolepiasis, classified under ICD-10-CM code B71.0, is a parasitic infection caused by the tapeworms Hymenolepis nana (dwarf tapeworm) and Hymenolepis diminuta. This condition is significant in both clinical and epidemiological contexts, particularly in areas with poor sanitation and hygiene practices.

Clinical Description

Etiology

Hymenolepiasis is primarily caused by two species of tapeworms:
- Hymenolepis nana: This is the most common cause of hymenolepiasis in humans and is transmitted through the fecal-oral route, often via contaminated food or water.
- Hymenolepis diminuta: This species is less common and typically infects rodents, but it can also infect humans, usually through ingestion of infected insects.

Transmission

The transmission of Hymenolepiasis occurs when a person ingests eggs from contaminated sources. The eggs can be found in:
- Contaminated food or water
- Infected insects (in the case of H. diminuta)

Symptoms

Many individuals infected with Hymenolepis may remain asymptomatic. However, when symptoms do occur, they can include:
- Abdominal pain
- Diarrhea
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Anorexia
- Weight loss
- Fatigue

In severe cases, particularly in immunocompromised individuals, the infection can lead to more serious complications, such as intestinal obstruction or perforation.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of hymenolepiasis typically involves:
- Stool examination: Microscopic identification of eggs in stool samples is the most common diagnostic method.
- Serological tests: These may be used in some cases, although they are less common.

Treatment

The treatment for hymenolepiasis generally includes antiparasitic medications such as:
- Praziquantel: This is the most commonly used drug for treating tapeworm infections.
- Nitazoxanide: This may also be effective against Hymenolepis species.

Epidemiology

Hymenolepiasis is prevalent in areas with inadequate sanitation and hygiene practices. It is particularly common in:
- Developing countries
- Institutions such as daycare centers and schools where children are in close contact

Risk Factors

Risk factors for hymenolepiasis include:
- Poor sanitation and hygiene
- Close contact with infected individuals
- Consumption of contaminated food or water

Conclusion

ICD-10-CM code B71.0 for hymenolepiasis encompasses a significant public health concern, particularly in regions with high rates of infection. Understanding the clinical presentation, transmission routes, and treatment options is crucial for effective management and prevention of this parasitic infection. Awareness and education about hygiene practices can play a vital role in reducing the incidence of hymenolepiasis in vulnerable populations[1][2][3][4].

Hymenolepiasis, classified under ICD-10 code B71.0, is an intestinal infection caused by the tapeworms Hymenolepis nana (dwarf tapeworm) and Hymenolepis diminuta. This condition is particularly significant in pediatric populations and can lead to various clinical manifestations. Below is a detailed overview of the clinical presentation, signs, symptoms, and patient characteristics associated with hymenolepiasis.

Clinical Presentation

Signs and Symptoms

1. Gastrointestinal Symptoms:
   - Abdominal Pain: Patients often report cramping or discomfort in the abdominal area, which can vary in intensity.
   - Diarrhea: Frequent, watery stools are common, and in some cases, diarrhea may be accompanied by mucus.
   - Nausea and Vomiting: Some patients may experience nausea, which can lead to vomiting, particularly in severe cases.
   - Anorexia: A decrease in appetite is frequently noted, which can contribute to weight loss.

2. Systemic Symptoms:
   - Fatigue: Generalized weakness and fatigue are common, often due to malabsorption of nutrients.
   - Weight Loss: Chronic infection can lead to significant weight loss, especially in children.
   - Irritability: Particularly in children, irritability and behavioral changes may be observed.

3. Other Symptoms:
   - Pruritus: Itching around the anal area may occur, especially in cases of heavy infestation.
   - Signs of Malnutrition: In chronic cases, signs of malnutrition may develop due to nutrient deficiencies.

Patient Characteristics

• Age: Hymenolepiasis is most prevalent in children, particularly those aged 2 to 10 years, due to factors such as hygiene practices and exposure to contaminated environments.
• Geographic Distribution: The infection is more common in areas with poor sanitation and hygiene, particularly in developing countries. However, it can also occur in institutional settings such as daycare centers.
• Immunocompromised Status: Individuals with weakened immune systems, such as those with HIV/AIDS or other immunocompromising conditions, may be at higher risk for severe manifestations of the disease.

Diagnosis and Management

Diagnosis of hymenolepiasis typically involves stool examination to identify eggs or segments of the tapeworm. Treatment usually includes antiparasitic medications such as praziquantel or nitazoxanide, which are effective in eliminating the infection.

Conclusion

Hymenolepiasis, represented by ICD-10 code B71.0, presents with a range of gastrointestinal and systemic symptoms, particularly affecting children in areas with inadequate sanitation. Recognizing the signs and symptoms is crucial for timely diagnosis and treatment, which can significantly improve patient outcomes. Awareness of the patient characteristics associated with this infection can aid healthcare providers in identifying at-risk populations and implementing preventive measures.

Hymenolepiasis, classified under ICD-10 code B71.0, refers to an infection caused by the tapeworms of the genus Hymenolepis, primarily Hymenolepis nana (dwarf tapeworm) and Hymenolepis diminuta. This condition is significant in the field of parasitology and public health, particularly in areas with poor sanitation.

Alternative Names for Hymenolepiasis

1. Dwarf Tapeworm Infection: This term specifically refers to infections caused by Hymenolepis nana, which is the most common species associated with hymenolepiasis.
2. Hymenolepis Infection: A broader term that encompasses infections caused by any species within the Hymenolepis genus.
3. Hymenolepiasis Nana: This term is often used to specify infections caused by Hymenolepis nana.
4. Hymenolepiasis Diminuta: Refers specifically to infections caused by Hymenolepis diminuta, which is less common than Hymenolepis nana.

Related Terms

• Cestodiasis: A general term for infections caused by cestodes (tapeworms), which includes hymenolepiasis as a specific type.
• Intestinal Tapeworm Infection: A broader category that includes various types of tapeworm infections, including hymenolepiasis.
• Parasitic Infection: A general term that encompasses all infections caused by parasites, including those caused by Hymenolepis species.
• Helminthiasis: A term that refers to infections caused by helminths (worms), which includes cestodes like Hymenolepis.

Conclusion

Understanding the alternative names and related terms for ICD-10 code B71.0 is essential for accurate diagnosis, treatment, and communication in medical settings. These terms help healthcare professionals identify and discuss the condition effectively, ensuring that patients receive appropriate care. If you need further information on treatment options or epidemiology related to hymenolepiasis, feel free to ask!

Hymenolepiasis, classified under ICD-10 code B71.0, is a parasitic infection caused by the tapeworm Hymenolepis nana or Hymenolepis diminuta. The diagnosis of this condition involves several criteria and methods, which are essential for accurate identification and treatment. Below are the key diagnostic criteria and methods used for diagnosing Hymenolepiasis.

Clinical Presentation

Symptoms

Patients with Hymenolepiasis may present with a variety of symptoms, although some may be asymptomatic. Common symptoms include:

• Abdominal pain: Often crampy or colicky in nature.
• Diarrhea: This can be intermittent and may vary in severity.
• Nausea and vomiting: These symptoms can occur, particularly in more severe cases.
• Weight loss: Chronic infections may lead to malnutrition and weight loss.
• Fatigue: General malaise and fatigue can be reported by patients.

Laboratory Diagnosis

Stool Examination

The primary method for diagnosing Hymenolepiasis is through stool examination. This includes:

• Microscopic examination: Identification of eggs or proglottids in stool samples is crucial. The eggs of Hymenolepis nana are typically oval and measure about 30-47 micrometers in length, with a thick shell and polar filaments.
• Multiple samples: It is often recommended to examine multiple stool samples (usually three) over several days to increase the likelihood of detecting the eggs, as shedding can be intermittent.

Serological Tests

While not commonly used for routine diagnosis, serological tests can sometimes aid in identifying the presence of antibodies against the parasite, particularly in cases where stool examination is inconclusive.

Imaging Studies

In some cases, imaging studies such as abdominal ultrasound or CT scans may be utilized to assess for complications or to rule out other conditions, although these are not standard diagnostic tools for Hymenolepiasis.

Differential Diagnosis

It is important to differentiate Hymenolepiasis from other gastrointestinal infections and conditions that may present similarly. This includes:

• Other helminthic infections (e.g., Ascaris lumbricoides, Enterobius vermicularis)
• Bacterial infections (e.g., gastroenteritis)
• Inflammatory bowel diseases

Conclusion

The diagnosis of Hymenolepiasis (ICD-10 code B71.0) primarily relies on clinical symptoms and stool examination for the presence of eggs. Given the potential for asymptomatic cases and the intermittent shedding of eggs, multiple stool samples may be necessary for a definitive diagnosis. Understanding these criteria is essential for healthcare providers to ensure accurate diagnosis and effective treatment of this parasitic infection.

Hymenolepiasis, classified under ICD-10 code B71.0, is an intestinal infection caused by the tapeworms Hymenolepis nana (dwarf tapeworm) and Hymenolepis diminuta (rat tapeworm). This condition is particularly significant in areas with poor sanitation and hygiene, as it can lead to various gastrointestinal symptoms and complications. Understanding the standard treatment approaches for hymenolepiasis is crucial for effective management and patient care.

Overview of Hymenolepiasis

Hymenolepiasis is primarily transmitted through the ingestion of eggs found in contaminated food or water. The infection can be asymptomatic or may present with symptoms such as abdominal pain, diarrhea, nausea, and weight loss. In severe cases, it can lead to more serious complications, particularly in immunocompromised individuals[1][2].

Standard Treatment Approaches

1. Antiparasitic Medications

The cornerstone of treatment for hymenolepiasis involves the use of antiparasitic medications. The following drugs are commonly prescribed:

• Praziquantel: This is the most widely used medication for treating hymenolepiasis. It works by causing severe spasms and paralysis of the worms, leading to their expulsion from the host's body. The typical dosage for adults is 25 mg/kg, administered in two or three doses over a day[3][4].

• Nitazoxanide: This medication is also effective against a variety of intestinal parasites, including Hymenolepis species. It is often used in cases where praziquantel is contraindicated or ineffective. The usual dosage is 500 mg twice daily for three days[5].

2. Supportive Care

In addition to antiparasitic treatment, supportive care is essential, especially for patients experiencing significant gastrointestinal symptoms. This may include:

• Hydration: Ensuring adequate fluid intake is crucial, particularly if the patient is experiencing diarrhea or vomiting.

• Nutritional Support: Patients may require dietary adjustments to manage symptoms and ensure proper nutrition during recovery.

3. Follow-Up and Monitoring

After treatment, follow-up is important to ensure the infection has been cleared. This may involve:

• Stool Examination: A stool sample may be tested for the presence of eggs or segments of the tapeworm to confirm successful treatment.

• Monitoring for Recurrence: Patients should be educated about hygiene practices to prevent reinfection, as hymenolepiasis can recur if proper sanitation measures are not followed[6].

Conclusion

Hymenolepiasis, while often asymptomatic, can lead to significant health issues if left untreated. The standard treatment primarily involves antiparasitic medications such as praziquantel and nitazoxanide, along with supportive care to manage symptoms. Regular follow-up and education on hygiene practices are essential to prevent recurrence and ensure the well-being of affected individuals. If you suspect an infection or have symptoms consistent with hymenolepiasis, it is important to seek medical advice for appropriate diagnosis and treatment.

References

1. ICD-10 International statistical classification of diseases.
2. Guidebook on International Statistical Classification of Diseases.
3. Instruction manual 2e (volume 1) ICD-10 tabular list.
4. HELMINTHIASES Includes Flukes, Tapeworms, Filarial.
5. ICD-10-AM Disease Code List.
6. International Statistical Classification of Diseases - 10th.