Tularaemia, unspecified
ICD-10 A21.8 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of tularaemia, unspecified.
Tularaemia, also known as rabbit fever, is a zoonotic infection caused by the bacterium Francisella tularensis. This highly infectious organism can be transmitted to humans through various routes, including direct contact with infected animals, bites from infected insects, or inhalation of contaminated aerosols. The disease is characterized by a range of clinical manifestations, including fever, chills, headaches, and localized infections depending on the route of transmission. The most common forms of tularaemia include ulceroglandular, glandular, oculoglandular, and pneumonic types, but the unspecified code A21.8 is used when the specific type is not documented. Public health considerations are critical, as tularaemia is considered a potential bioterrorism agent due to its infectious nature and the severity of illness it can cause. Surveillance and control measures are essential to prevent outbreaks, particularly in areas where the disease is endemic, and among populations at risk, such as hunters and laboratory workers.
Detailed patient history, exposure risks, and laboratory results.
Patients presenting with fever and lymphadenopathy after exposure to wildlife.
Ensure that all clinical manifestations are documented to support the diagnosis.
Epidemiological data and outbreak reports.
Surveillance of tularaemia cases in endemic areas.
Documentation should include preventive measures and public health interventions.
Used when confirming a diagnosis of tularaemia.
Document the source of the culture and clinical indications.
Infectious disease specialists should ensure that cultures are properly labeled and handled.
Tularaemia is primarily caused by the bacterium Francisella tularensis, which can be transmitted to humans through contact with infected animals, bites from infected insects, or inhalation of contaminated aerosols.
