Tularaemia
ICD-10 A21.7 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of tularaemia.
Tularaemia, also known as rabbit fever, is an infectious disease caused by the bacterium Francisella tularensis. This zoonotic infection primarily affects animals, particularly rodents, rabbits, and hares, but can be transmitted to humans through various routes. The disease is characterized by a range of clinical manifestations, including fever, chills, headaches, and muscle aches, which may progress to more severe symptoms such as pneumonia, septicemia, or ulceroglandular disease. Transmission to humans can occur through direct contact with infected animals, bites from infected insects (such as ticks and deer flies), inhalation of contaminated aerosols, or ingestion of contaminated food or water. Public health considerations are paramount, as tularaemia is classified as a potential bioterrorism agent due to its infectious nature and ability to be aerosolized. Surveillance and control measures are essential to prevent outbreaks, particularly in areas where the disease is endemic. Effective management includes prompt diagnosis, antibiotic treatment, and public education on avoiding exposure to potential vectors.
Detailed patient history including exposure risks and clinical symptoms.
Patients presenting with fever and lymphadenopathy after potential exposure to wildlife.
Ensure all clinical manifestations are documented to support the diagnosis.
Reports on outbreaks, exposure incidents, and epidemiological data.
Investigation of clusters of tularaemia cases in specific geographic areas.
Focus on surveillance data and prevention strategies.
Used when confirming a diagnosis of tularaemia.
Document the source of the culture and clinical suspicion.
Infectious disease specialists should ensure proper specimen handling.
Common symptoms include fever, chills, headaches, muscle aches, and swollen lymph nodes. Severe cases may present with pneumonia or septicemia.
