Sequelae of protein-calorie malnutrition

This code signifies the long-term health consequences or residual effects stemming from a past episode of protein-calorie malnutrition. It indicates that while the acute malnutrition may have resolved, the patient continues to experience related health issues. These sequelae can manifest in various organ systems and impact overall health.

Apply this code when documentation clearly links a current health problem to a history of protein-calorie malnutrition. This is appropriate for conditions like chronic organ damage, persistent growth stunting (if not coded to E45), or neurological deficits directly attributed to a previous nutritional deficiency. The medical record should explicitly state the causal relationship.

• Ensure the documentation specifies the sequela of malnutrition, not the active malnutrition itself.
• Do not use for developmental retardation directly linked to protein-calorie malnutrition; refer to the Excludes2 note for E45.
• Always code the specific sequela (e.g., chronic kidney disease, neurological deficit) first, then sequence this code as a secondary diagnosis to indicate the etiology.