Question

When coding in icd-10-cm, in"niacin deficiency [pellagra],"what do the brackets represent?

Answer 1

In ICD-10-CM coding, brackets around a condition indicate that the term within the brackets is an alternative term or explanatory synonym for the condition listed. Pellagra is a niacin deficiency disease characterized by dermatitis, diarrhea, and dementia, leading to death if not treated.

Step-by-step explanation:

When coding in ICD-10-CM, the brackets around a condition, such as in "niacin deficiency [pellagra]," specify that pellagra is a type of niacin deficiency. In other words, the brackets indicate an alternative term or an explanatory synonym for the condition. Pellagra is a deficiency disease caused by a lack of niacin, also known as vitamin B3, and is characterized by the "3 Ds": Dermatitis, Diarrhoea, and Dementia, which can progress to Death if left untreated.

Answer 2

Pellagra is a disease characterized when an individual does not get enough niacin or tryptophan.

Step-by-step explanation:

The cause of pellagra is having little niacin or tryptophan in the diet. This disease can also occur if the body cannot absorb these nutrients. This disease can appear due to:

-Gastrointestinal diseases

-Anorexy

-Excessive alcohol consumption

-Some medications such as isoniazid, 5-flurouracil, 6-mercaptopurine

This disease is very common in certain countries in Africa, where individuals eat too much natural corn. Corn does not contain enough tryptophan. Niacin is released from corn if it is soaked overnight in lime water. This practice is used to make tortillas in Central America.