E74.39
Other disorders of intestinal carbohydrate absorption
Clinical Classification Guidelines
Inclusion Terms
- Disorder of intestinal carbohydrate absorption NOS
- Glucose-galactose malabsorption
- Sucrase deficiency
Medical Intelligence & Overview
E74.39 refers to various uncommon conditions that affect how the intestines absorb carbohydrates. These disorders can lead to digestive symptoms due to the body's inability to properly break down and absorb sugars such as glucose, galactose, and sucrose. Conditions grouped under this code include glucose-galactose malabsorption and sucrase deficiency, which disrupt normal carbohydrate digestion and can impact nutritional absorption.
Causes & Symptoms
Clinical Causes: Genetic mutations affecting transporters responsible for carbohydrate absorption in the intestines. Deficiency of enzymes like sucrase, which is needed to break down disaccharides such as sucrose (table sugar). Structural abnormalities of the small intestine that impair digestion. In rare cases, secondary causes such as infections or inflammation impacting the intestinal lining.
Key Symptoms: Chronic diarrhea, often with a watery consistency. Abdominal bloating and cramping after consuming carbohydrate-rich foods. Gas formation and flatulence due to fermentation of unabsorbed sugars. Steatorrhea, or fatty stools, in cases where digestion is severely impaired. Weight loss or failure to thrive, especially in children. Nausea and, occasionally, vomiting following carbohydrate intake.
Diagnostic & Treatment
Diagnosis Path: Breath tests, such as the hydrogen breath test, which measure hydrogen produced by bacteria fermenting unabsorbed sugars. Small intestinal biopsy to assess enzyme levels and intestinal tissue health. Genetic testing to identify mutations associated with conditions like glucose-galactose malabsorption. Dietary history and symptom correlation to identify patterns related to carbohydrate intake.
Treatment Protocols: Elimination or restriction of problematic carbohydrates (e.g., sucrose, lactose) from the diet. Use of enzyme replacement therapies, such as sucrase enzymes, to aid digestion in cases like sucrase deficiency. Nutritional counseling to ensure adequate intake of essential nutrients despite dietary restrictions. Monitoring for possible deficiencies or malabsorption-related complications. Supportive care to manage symptoms like diarrhea and dehydration.
Clinical Advice & FAQs
Billing Guidance
Is E74.39 a billable ICD-10 code?
Yes, E74.39 is a specific, billable code that can be used to indicate a diagnosis for reimbursement purposes.
Documentation
How do I report E74.39?
Clinical documentation must specify the nature of Other disorders of intestinal carbohydrate absorption and any associated comorbidities for accurate reporting.
Cite this Clinical Reference