Ascariasis with intestinal complications

This code represents an infection of the human intestine by the roundworm Ascaris lumbricoides that has led to specific complications within the gastrointestinal tract. These complications typically involve mechanical obstruction or other direct damage to the intestines caused by the presence or migration of the worms.

Use this code when documentation clearly indicates ascariasis and specifies an associated intestinal complication, such as bowel obstruction, intussusception, volvulus, or perforation. The physician's notes should explicitly link the ascariasis to the intestinal issue, often detailing symptoms like severe abdominal pain, vomiting, or signs of obstruction.

• Ensure the documentation explicitly states an intestinal complication directly attributable to the ascariasis, not just general gastrointestinal symptoms.
• Do not use this code for uncomplicated ascariasis; refer to codes within the B77 category for ascariasis without specified complications.
• Consider sequencing this code as the primary diagnosis if the intestinal complication is the main reason for the encounter, followed by codes for specific complications if further detail is required and supported.