Onchocerciasis

This code represents onchocerciasis, a parasitic infection caused by the nematode Onchocerca volvulus. It is characterized by skin lesions, subcutaneous nodules, and ocular manifestations that can lead to blindness. The infection is transmitted through the bite of infected blackflies.

This code is appropriate for documenting a confirmed diagnosis of onchocerciasis based on clinical findings, microscopic identification of microfilariae in skin snips, or detection of adult worms in excised nodules. It should be used when the patient presents with symptoms consistent with "river blindness" or other systemic manifestations of the disease.

• Ensure documentation specifies a confirmed diagnosis of onchocerciasis, not merely suspected exposure.
• Do not confuse with other filarial infections; this code is specific to Onchocerca volvulus.
• Code any associated ocular complications or skin conditions separately if they meet criteria for additional diagnoses.