ICD-10 Code B56 – African trypanosomiasis (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code B56 – African trypanosomiasis
What it is
B56 identifies African trypanosomiasis, also called sleeping sickness, a parasitic infection caused by Trypanosoma species. Use it when the record documents this specific disease, not a nonspecific febrile illness.
Clinical signs
Clinical features vary; refer to documentation. Commonly reported findings include fever, headache, lymphadenopathy, and later neurologic changes such as sleep disturbance, confusion, or somnolence.
When to use this code
Use B56 when the provider confirms African trypanosomiasis in the assessment, discharge summary, or problem list. It also fits confirmed cases with documented parasitic infection and compatible clinical findings. If the note only says possible exposure or rule-out disease, do not assign it.
Do not use for
Do not use B56 for other trypanosomal infections outside African trypanosomiasis. Also avoid it when documentation is limited to travel history, screening, or suspected infection without confirmation.
Coding tip
Code the confirmed diagnosis only, and check documentation for the specific trypanosome type and disease stage.