ICD-10 Code B72 – Dracunculiasis (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code B72 – Dracunculiasis
What it is
B72 identifies dracunculiasis, a parasitic infection caused by Dracunculus medinensis. It is used when the diagnosis is confirmed or documented in the medical record.
Clinical signs
Clinical features vary; refer to documentation. Typical findings include a painful skin lesion or blister, usually on the lower limb, with possible emergence of a worm and local inflammation.
When to use this code
Use B72 when the provider documents dracunculiasis, Guinea worm disease, or infection due to Dracunculus medinensis. Code it for confirmed active disease, including cases described by characteristic skin lesions or parasite emergence. If the record is unclear, check documentation before assigning the code.
Do not use for
Do not use B72 for nonspecific skin ulcers, abscesses, or other parasitic infections without documentation of dracunculiasis. If the note only suggests exposure or suspicion, check documentation.
Coding tip
Match the code to the provider’s exact wording, especially when the record uses “Guinea worm disease” or names the parasite.