A07.2

HCC Category Mapping

What This Code Means

Cryptosporidiosis is a parasitic infection of the intestines caused by tiny organisms called Cryptosporidium, which spreads through contaminated water or food and causes severe diarrhea and abdominal discomfort. This infection is particularly serious in people with weakened immune systems, such as those with HIV/AIDS.

Coding Tips

• •Verify the site of infection (intestinal vs. respiratory) as some Cryptosporidium infections can affect the lungs; code A07.2 is specifically for intestinal cryptosporidiosis
• •Document the patient's immune status, especially if HIV-positive, as this affects severity coding and treatment decisions; consider coding both the cryptosporidiosis and any underlying immunocompromised condition

Clinical Significance

Cryptosporidiosis is a parasitic diarrheal illness caused by Cryptosporidium species that is an AIDS-defining illness when chronic. In immunocompetent patients it is typically self-limited, but in immunocompromised patients (especially those with CD4 counts below 200) it can cause severe, chronic, life-threatening watery diarrhea with significant wasting.

Documentation Requirements

• ✓Stool testing confirming Cryptosporidium (modified acid-fast stain, antigen detection, or PCR)
• ✓Duration and severity of diarrhea (acute vs. chronic, volume of fluid loss)
• ✓Immune status of the patient — particularly HIV/AIDS status with CD4 count
• ✓Evidence of complications (dehydration, malnutrition, biliary involvement, weight loss)
• ✓Documentation of whether infection is self-limited or chronic/recurrent

Commonly Confused Codes