Eosinophilic esophagitis

This code represents a chronic, immune-mediated inflammatory condition of the esophagus characterized by a dense infiltration of eosinophils. It leads to esophageal dysfunction, including dysphagia, food impaction, and heartburn, often mimicking gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). The diagnosis is typically confirmed by esophageal biopsy showing a high eosinophil count.

Use this code when documentation clearly indicates a diagnosis of eosinophilic esophagitis, often supported by endoscopic findings and histological confirmation of eosinophilic infiltration. This applies to both initial diagnoses and follow-up encounters for managing the condition. It should be used when the patient's symptoms and diagnostic workup align with the established criteria for this specific inflammatory disorder.

• Ensure documentation specifies "eosinophilic" esophagitis to differentiate from other forms of esophagitis.
• Do not confuse with reflux esophagitis (K21.0-K21.9) unless eosinophilic esophagitis is explicitly ruled out or co-exists and is separately documented.
• Consider sequencing with codes for associated symptoms (e.g., dysphagia R13.12, food impaction T18.190A) if they are treated or evaluated during the encounter.