Dementia due to pellagra

Description

Dementia due to pellagra is caused by persistent lack of vitamin B3 (niacin) or tryptophan either in the diet or due to poor absorption in the gastrointestinal tract due to disease (e.g., Crohn disease) or due to the effects of some medications (e.g., isoniazid). Core signs of pellagra include dermatological changes (sensitivity to sunlight, lesions, alopecia, and oedema) and diarrhoea. With prolonged nutritional deficiency cognitive symptoms that include aggressivity, motor disturbances (ataxia and restlessness), confusion, and weakness are observed. Treatment with nutritional supplementation (e.g., niacin) typically results in reversal of symptoms.

Coding note from above levels

This category should never be used in primary tabulation. The codes are provided for use as supplementary or additional codes when it is desired to identify the presence of dementia in diseases classified elsewhere. When dementia is due to multiple aetiologies, code all that apply.

This category should only be used for primary tabulation, if the aetiology of the dementia is unknown. If the aetiology of the dementia is known code to the aetiology of the dementia for primary tabulation. When dementia is due to multiple aetiologies, code all that apply.

Exclusions from above levels

• 6A00 – Disorders of intellectual development
• 6D70 – Delirium
• http://id.who.int/icd/entity/1516623224 – Neurodevelopmental disorders