Cachexia

This code represents a state of severe general ill health and malnutrition, characterized by profound weight loss, muscle atrophy, fatigue, weakness, and significant loss of body fat. It is often associated with chronic, debilitating diseases such as cancer, AIDS, heart failure, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Cachexia is a complex metabolic syndrome distinct from simple starvation.

Use this code when documentation clearly indicates a diagnosis of cachexia, often described as "wasting syndrome" or "cancer cachexia." This diagnosis is typically supported by objective findings such as significant involuntary weight loss (e.g., >5% body weight over 12 months), reduced muscle strength, fatigue, anorexia, and biochemical abnormalities. It should be used as a secondary diagnosis when the underlying cause is known.

• Always code the underlying primary condition causing the cachexia first.
• Distinguish cachexia from malnutrition (e.g., protein-calorie malnutrition) which may be less severe or have different etiologies.
• Ensure documentation specifies "cachexia" or a clinically equivalent term to support this specific diagnosis.