Nutritional marasmus

This code represents severe protein-energy malnutrition characterized by significant wasting of muscle and subcutaneous fat, resulting in a "skin and bones" appearance. It is a chronic form of undernutrition where the body's energy and protein intake are insufficient to meet metabolic demands.

Assign this code when documentation clearly indicates severe emaciation, muscle atrophy, and absence of edema, consistent with marasmus. This diagnosis is typically supported by anthropometric measurements (e.g., very low weight-for-height, mid-upper arm circumference) and clinical signs of severe wasting.

• Differentiate from kwashiorkor (E40) by the absence of edema; marasmus presents without significant fluid retention.
• Never code concurrently with E42 (Marasmic kwashiorkor) due to the Excludes1 note.
• Ensure documentation specifies the type of severe malnutrition to avoid unspecified codes.