Moderate protein-calorie malnutrition

This code signifies a state of moderate nutritional deficiency characterized by inadequate intake or absorption of both protein and calories. It reflects a significant impact on body mass and function, but not yet severe or life-threatening. Patients often present with noticeable weight loss, muscle wasting, and impaired immune function.

Use this code when documentation clearly indicates a diagnosis of moderate protein-calorie malnutrition, often supported by anthropometric measurements (e.g., BMI between 16-16.9 kg/m² for adults), laboratory findings (e.g., low albumin, prealbumin), and clinical signs of nutritional depletion. This code is appropriate for conditions like marasmus or kwashiorkor when the severity is explicitly stated as moderate.

• Ensure the physician's documentation explicitly states "moderate" to support this specific severity level.
• Differentiate from severe protein-calorie malnutrition (E43) or unspecified malnutrition (E44.1) based on documented clinical indicators.
• Always sequence this code as a secondary diagnosis when the underlying cause of malnutrition (e.g., malabsorption, chronic disease) is known and documented.