Nonspecific abnormal findings in stool contents

This code signifies the presence of abnormal substances in a stool sample that are not specifically identified as blood, parasites, or pathogenic bacteria. It indicates findings such as undigested food particles, excess fat, or other uncharacterized abnormal elements detected during a stool analysis. These findings suggest a potential underlying gastrointestinal issue requiring further investigation.

Use this code when laboratory results indicate nonspecific abnormalities in stool contents, such as steatorrhea (excess fat), creatorrhea (undigested muscle fibers), or other unidentifiable abnormal components, and a more specific diagnosis is not yet established. Documentation should clearly state "nonspecific abnormal findings in stool" or detail the presence of abnormal elements without a definitive cause.

• Do not use this code if the stool abnormality is specifically identified (e.g., occult blood, ova and parasites, bacterial pathogens); use the more specific code.
• This code is often used as a temporary diagnosis while further diagnostic workup is pending to determine the definitive cause of the abnormal stool findings.
• Consider sequencing this code after a symptom code (e.g., diarrhea, abdominal pain) if the abnormal stool findings are contributing to the patient's presenting symptoms.