Hymenolepiasis

This code describes an intestinal infection caused by the dwarf tapeworm, Hymenolepis nana, or the rat tapeworm, Hymenolepis diminuta. It is characterized by symptoms such as abdominal pain, diarrhea, anorexia, and sometimes pruritus ani, particularly in children.

Use this code when documentation confirms a diagnosis of hymenolepiasis, typically through the identification of Hymenolepis eggs or proglottids in stool samples. This code is appropriate for both symptomatic and asymptomatic infections.

• Differentiate from other helminthic infections; ensure the specific tapeworm genus Hymenolepis is documented.
• Review documentation for associated symptoms or complications that may require additional coding.
• This is a definitive diagnosis code; avoid using non-specific intestinal parasite codes when hymenolepiasis is confirmed.