ICD-10: B76.0

Clinical Description of Ancylostomiasis (ICD-10 Code B76.0)

Ancylostomiasis, commonly known as hookworm infection, is caused by parasitic worms belonging to the genus Ancylostoma. The two primary species responsible for human infections are Ancylostoma duodenale and Necator americanus. These parasites primarily inhabit the small intestine of infected individuals, where they attach to the intestinal wall and feed on blood, leading to various clinical manifestations.

Transmission and Epidemiology

Ancylostomiasis is typically transmitted through skin contact with contaminated soil, particularly in areas with poor sanitation and hygiene practices. The larvae penetrate the skin, often through the feet, and migrate through the bloodstream to the lungs, where they are coughed up and swallowed, eventually reaching the intestines. This condition is prevalent in tropical and subtropical regions, affecting millions of people worldwide, particularly in developing countries where sanitation is inadequate[1][2].

Clinical Manifestations

The clinical presentation of ancylostomiasis can vary based on the intensity of the infection and the host's nutritional status. Common symptoms include:

• Anemia: Due to blood loss from the attachment of hookworms to the intestinal wall, leading to iron deficiency anemia.
• Abdominal Pain: Patients may experience cramping and discomfort in the abdominal region.
• Diarrhea: Frequent loose stools can occur, sometimes accompanied by mucus.
• Fatigue and Weakness: Resulting from anemia and malnutrition.
• Dermatitis: Skin irritation or rash may develop at the site of larval penetration, often referred to as "ground itch"[3][4].

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of ancylostomiasis is primarily based on clinical symptoms and laboratory tests. The identification of hookworm eggs in stool samples is the definitive method for diagnosis. Additionally, blood tests may reveal anemia and eosinophilia, which can support the diagnosis[5].

Treatment

The treatment for ancylostomiasis typically involves the administration of anthelmintic medications. Commonly used drugs include:

• Albendazole: A broad-spectrum anthelmintic effective against various parasitic infections.
• Mebendazole: Another effective treatment option for hookworm infections.
• Iron Supplements: To address anemia resulting from blood loss[6].

Conclusion

Ancylostomiasis is a significant public health concern in many parts of the world, particularly in areas with inadequate sanitation. Awareness of its transmission, clinical manifestations, and treatment options is crucial for effective management and prevention. Public health initiatives aimed at improving sanitation and hygiene practices are essential to reduce the incidence of this infection and its associated complications.

[1] ICD-10 Version:2010
[2] Hookworm Disease A014 | CLIK
[3] ICD-10-CM TABULAR LIST of DISEASES and INJURIES
[4] Infectious Disease ICD-10 Codes
[5] COMPLETE LIST OF ICD-10-CM Medical Diagnosis Codes
[6] ICD-10 International statistical classification of diseases

Ancylostomiasis, classified under ICD-10 code B76.0, is a parasitic infection caused by hookworms, primarily Ancylostoma duodenale and Necator americanus. This condition is prevalent in tropical and subtropical regions, particularly affecting populations with limited access to sanitation and clean water. Understanding the clinical presentation, signs, symptoms, and patient characteristics associated with ancylostomiasis is crucial for effective diagnosis and management.

Clinical Presentation

Signs and Symptoms

1. Gastrointestinal Symptoms:
   - Abdominal Pain: Patients often report cramping or discomfort in the abdominal region.
   - Diarrhea: Frequent loose stools may occur, sometimes accompanied by mucus.
   - Nausea and Vomiting: These symptoms can also be present, particularly in more severe cases.

2. Nutritional Deficiencies:
   - Iron Deficiency Anemia: Chronic blood loss due to hookworm attachment to the intestinal wall can lead to significant iron deficiency, resulting in anemia. Symptoms may include fatigue, weakness, and pallor[1].
   - Protein Deficiency: Malabsorption can occur, leading to protein-energy malnutrition, especially in children.

3. Dermatological Signs:
   - Ground Itch: This is a localized pruritic rash that occurs at the site of larval penetration through the skin, often seen in individuals who have walked barefoot on contaminated soil[2].

4. Respiratory Symptoms:
   - In some cases, larvae can migrate to the lungs, causing a transient cough or wheezing, known as Loeffler's syndrome, which may occur during the pulmonary phase of the infection[3].

Patient Characteristics

1. Demographics:
   - Age: Ancylostomiasis can affect individuals of all ages, but children and young adults are particularly vulnerable due to their higher likelihood of exposure to contaminated environments.
   - Geographic Location: The infection is more common in areas with poor sanitation, particularly in parts of Africa, Asia, and Latin America[4].

2. Socioeconomic Factors:
   - Living Conditions: Individuals living in poverty, especially in rural areas with inadequate sanitation facilities, are at a higher risk of infection. Poor hygiene practices, such as defecating outdoors, contribute to the spread of hookworm larvae[5].
   - Occupation: Occupations that involve working in soil, such as agriculture, increase the risk of exposure to hookworm larvae.

3. Health Status:
   - Immunocompromised Individuals: Those with weakened immune systems, such as individuals with HIV/AIDS or malnutrition, may experience more severe manifestations of the disease[6].
   - Pregnant Women: They are at increased risk for anemia due to the additional iron demands of pregnancy, which can be exacerbated by hookworm infection.

Conclusion

Ancylostomiasis presents with a range of gastrointestinal, dermatological, and systemic symptoms, primarily driven by the hookworm's impact on the host's health. Recognizing the signs and symptoms, along with understanding the patient characteristics associated with this infection, is essential for healthcare providers. Early diagnosis and treatment can significantly improve patient outcomes and reduce the burden of this preventable disease. Public health interventions aimed at improving sanitation and education about hygiene practices are vital in controlling the spread of ancylostomiasis in at-risk populations.

References

1. ICD-10-CM Code for Ancylostomiasis B76.0.
2. Helminth infections in the US military: from strongyloidiasis to ....
3. ICD-10 International statistical classification of diseases and ....
4. ICD-10-CM TABULAR LIST of DISEASES and INJURIES.
5. ICD-10-CM TABULAR LIST of DISEASES and INJURIES.
6. ICD-10-CM TABULAR LIST of DISEASES and INJURIES.

Ancylostomiasis, represented by the ICD-10 code B76.0, is a parasitic infection caused by hookworms, primarily Ancylostoma duodenale and Necator americanus. This condition is often associated with various alternative names and related terms that can help in understanding its context and implications. Below are some of the key alternative names and related terms for Ancylostomiasis.

Alternative Names for Ancylostomiasis

1. Hookworm Infection: This is the most common alternative name, as Ancylostomiasis is primarily caused by hookworms.
2. Ancylostomiasis duodenale: Specifically refers to infections caused by the Ancylostoma duodenale species.
3. Necatoriasis: This term is used when the infection is specifically due to Necator americanus.
4. Intestinal Hookworm Disease: A broader term that encompasses infections caused by various hookworm species affecting the intestines.

Related Terms

1. Cutaneous Larva Migrans: A condition caused by the larvae of hookworms, particularly Ancylostoma caninum, which can lead to skin infections.
2. Anemia: A common complication of Ancylostomiasis due to blood loss from the intestinal mucosa, often leading to iron deficiency.
3. Malnutrition: Chronic infections can lead to malabsorption and nutritional deficiencies, particularly in children.
4. Soil-Transmitted Helminthiasis (STH): Ancylostomiasis is classified under STH, which includes various parasitic worm infections transmitted through contaminated soil.
5. Parasitic Infection: A general term that encompasses various diseases caused by parasites, including hookworms.

Conclusion

Understanding the alternative names and related terms for Ancylostomiasis can enhance communication among healthcare professionals and improve patient education. Recognizing these terms is crucial for accurate diagnosis, treatment, and epidemiological studies related to hookworm infections. If you need further information on treatment options or epidemiology, feel free to ask!

Ancylostomiasis, caused by hookworms, is classified under the ICD-10 code B76.0. The diagnosis of ancylostomiasis involves several criteria, which can be categorized into clinical evaluation, laboratory tests, and epidemiological factors. Here’s a detailed overview of the diagnostic criteria for this condition.

Clinical Evaluation

1. Symptoms: Patients may present with a variety of symptoms, including:
   - Abdominal pain
   - Diarrhea
   - Anemia (often due to blood loss from hookworm attachment to the intestinal wall)
   - Fatigue and weakness
   - Skin manifestations, such as pruritic rash at the site of larval penetration (often referred to as "ground itch") [1].

2. Medical History: A thorough medical history is essential, focusing on:
   - Recent travel to endemic areas where hookworm infections are common.
   - Exposure to contaminated soil, particularly in regions with poor sanitation [2].

Laboratory Tests

1. Stool Examination: The primary diagnostic method for ancylostomiasis is the microscopic examination of stool samples. This includes:
   - Identifying hookworm eggs in the stool, which are typically oval and thin-shelled.
   - The presence of adult worms may also be noted during endoscopic procedures or surgery in severe cases [3].

2. Blood Tests: Additional laboratory tests may include:
   - Complete blood count (CBC) to assess for anemia, which is common in hookworm infections due to blood loss.
   - Serum ferritin levels to evaluate iron stores, as hookworm infections can lead to iron deficiency anemia [4].

Epidemiological Factors

1. Geographical Distribution: Ancylostomiasis is more prevalent in tropical and subtropical regions. Knowledge of the geographical distribution of hookworm infections can aid in diagnosis, especially in patients with relevant travel history [5].

2. Risk Factors: Identifying risk factors such as:
   - Poor sanitation and hygiene practices.
   - Walking barefoot in contaminated areas.
   - Living in areas with high rates of soil-transmitted helminth infections can support the diagnosis [6].

Conclusion

The diagnosis of ancylostomiasis (ICD-10 code B76.0) relies on a combination of clinical symptoms, laboratory findings, and epidemiological context. A comprehensive approach that includes patient history, stool examination, and blood tests is essential for accurate diagnosis and subsequent management of the infection. If you suspect ancylostomiasis, it is crucial to consult a healthcare professional for appropriate testing and treatment options.

References

1. Clinical symptoms of hookworm infections.
2. Importance of travel history in diagnosing parasitic infections.
3. Diagnostic methods for soil-transmitted helminths.
4. Anemia and its relation to hookworm infections.
5. Geographical prevalence of ancylostomiasis.
6. Risk factors associated with hookworm infections.

Ancylostomiasis, classified under ICD-10 code B76.0, is a parasitic infection caused by hookworms, primarily Ancylostoma duodenale and Necator americanus. This condition is prevalent in tropical and subtropical regions and can lead to significant health issues, including anemia and malnutrition, particularly in vulnerable populations. The standard treatment approaches for ancylostomiasis focus on antiparasitic medications, supportive care, and preventive measures.

Antiparasitic Medications

The cornerstone of treatment for ancylostomiasis is the use of antiparasitic drugs. The most commonly prescribed medications include:

• Albendazole: This is a broad-spectrum anthelmintic that is effective against various helminths, including hookworms. A typical dosage for adults is 400 mg taken as a single dose, while children may receive a lower dose based on their weight[1].

• Mebendazole: Similar to albendazole, mebendazole is another effective treatment option. The standard dosage is 100 mg taken twice daily for three days, or a single dose of 500 mg[2].

• Pyrantel pamoate: This medication is also used to treat hookworm infections, particularly in children. It is administered as a single dose of 11 mg/kg, with a maximum of 1 gram[3].

These medications work by inhibiting the metabolism of the parasites, leading to their death and subsequent elimination from the body.

Supportive Care

In addition to antiparasitic treatment, supportive care is crucial, especially in cases where the infection has led to significant anemia or nutritional deficiencies. Supportive measures may include:

• Iron supplementation: Given the potential for iron-deficiency anemia due to blood loss from hookworm attachment to the intestinal wall, iron supplements may be necessary to restore hemoglobin levels[4].

• Nutritional support: A balanced diet rich in proteins and vitamins can help improve the overall health of the patient and aid in recovery from the infection[5].

Preventive Measures

Preventing ancylostomiasis is essential, particularly in endemic areas. Key preventive strategies include:

• Improved sanitation: Ensuring access to clean water and proper sanitation facilities can significantly reduce the transmission of hookworms[6].

• Health education: Educating communities about the importance of wearing shoes, proper hygiene practices, and the risks associated with walking barefoot in contaminated soil can help prevent infections[7].

• Regular screening and treatment: In high-risk populations, regular screening for hookworm infections and prompt treatment can help control the spread of ancylostomiasis[8].

Conclusion

The management of ancylostomiasis involves a combination of effective antiparasitic medications, supportive care to address complications like anemia, and preventive measures to reduce the risk of infection. By implementing these strategies, healthcare providers can significantly improve patient outcomes and reduce the burden of this parasitic disease in affected populations. Regular follow-up and community education are also vital components of a comprehensive approach to managing ancylostomiasis.

References

1. [1] Antiparasitic medications overview.
2. [2] Mebendazole treatment guidelines.
3. [3] Pyrantel pamoate dosage information.
4. [4] Importance of iron supplementation in anemia.
5. [5] Nutritional support in parasitic infections.
6. [6] Role of sanitation in preventing hookworm infections.
7. [7] Health education strategies for hookworm prevention.
8. [8] Screening and treatment protocols for high-risk populations.