Paragonimiasis

This code represents paragonimiasis, a parasitic lung fluke infection caused by species of Paragonimus, most commonly P. westermani. The infection typically manifests as a chronic inflammatory process in the lungs, mimicking tuberculosis or other respiratory conditions. Extrapulmonary manifestations, though less common, can involve the brain, liver, or skin.

Use this code for documented cases of paragonimiasis, confirmed by identification of Paragonimus eggs in sputum, stool, pleural fluid, or biopsy, or by serological testing. It is appropriate when the patient presents with symptoms such as chronic cough, hemoptysis, chest pain, or abnormal chest imaging consistent with lung fluke infection.

• Ensure documentation specifies the diagnosis of paragonimiasis, not just suspected parasitic infection.
• Do not confuse this with other helminthic infections; verify the specific parasitic agent.
• Consider sequencing this code as the primary diagnosis when paragonimiasis is the reason for the encounter and treatment.