Lactose intolerance (E73)
ICD-10 code E73 covers lactose intolerance, a condition where the body struggles to digest lactose, the sugar found in milk and dairy products. This section includes specific codes that identify different types of lactose intolerance based on cause and onset.
The codes range from E73.0, representing congenital lactase deficiency; a genetic form often called primary lactase deficiency or congenital lactase deficiency; to E73.1, which is used for secondary lactase deficiency, an acquired form that develops due to other diseases affecting the small intestine. Additionally, E73.8 captures other varied types of lactose intolerance, including primary lactose intolerance and hereditary forms, sometimes described as nonpersistence of intestinal lactase or syndromes of carbohydrate intolerance. Lastly, E73.9 is assigned when lactose intolerance is present but unspecified, covering terms such as disaccharidase deficiency or malabsorption syndrome due to lactose intolerance. Utilizing these specific ICD-10 codes helps accurately classify lactose intolerance conditions for clinical documentation and billing purposes.
Clinical Terms
The following clinical terms provide additional context, helping users better understand the clinical background and common associations for each diagnosis listed in this section. Including related terms alongside ICD-10-CM codes supports coders, billers, and healthcare professionals in improving accuracy, enhancing documentation, and facilitating research or patient education.
Lactose Intolerance
The condition resulting from the absence or deficiency of LACTASE in the MUCOSA cells of the GASTROINTESTINAL TRACT, and the inability to break down LACTOSE in milk for ABSORPTION. Bacterial fermentation of the unabsorbed lactose leads to symptoms that range from a mild indigestion (DYSPEPSIA) to severe DIARRHEA. Lactose intolerance may be an inborn error or acquired.
