Kwashiorkor

This code represents a severe form of protein-energy malnutrition, primarily characterized by protein deficiency, often with adequate calorie intake. Patients typically present with edema, ascites, skin lesions, hair changes, and a distended abdomen due to hepatomegaly. It is commonly seen in children in developing countries after weaning.

Assign this code when documentation explicitly states a diagnosis of Kwashiorkor. This typically occurs in pediatric patients presenting with characteristic signs of protein deficiency, such as bilateral pitting edema, dermatosis, and hair discoloration, in the absence of severe wasting. Supporting documentation would include physician notes detailing these clinical findings and the specific diagnosis.

• Do not code this with marasmic kwashiorkor (E42); these are mutually exclusive conditions.
• Ensure documentation clearly distinguishes Kwashiorkor from other forms of severe malnutrition, particularly marasmus.
• Look for specific clinical indicators like edema, which is a hallmark of Kwashiorkor, to differentiate it from marasmus.