Pulmonary tularemia
ICD-10 A22.9 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of pulmonary tularemia.
Pulmonary tularemia is a severe zoonotic infection caused by the bacterium Francisella tularensis, primarily affecting the lungs. It is transmitted to humans through contact with infected animals, bites from infected insects, or inhalation of contaminated aerosols. The disease can manifest as pneumonia, characterized by symptoms such as fever, cough, chest pain, and difficulty breathing. Inhalation of the bacteria can lead to a more severe form of the disease, with potential complications including respiratory failure and sepsis. Diagnosis is often confirmed through serological tests or culture of the organism from clinical specimens. Public health measures are crucial in controlling outbreaks, as tularemia can be transmitted from animals to humans, particularly in rural areas where exposure to infected wildlife is common. Awareness of the disease's transmission routes and clinical presentation is essential for timely diagnosis and treatment, which typically involves antibiotics such as streptomycin or doxycycline.
Detailed patient history including exposure risks, clinical symptoms, and laboratory results.
Patients presenting with pneumonia-like symptoms after exposure to wildlife or insect bites.
Ensure clear documentation of the diagnosis and treatment plan, including antibiotic therapy.
Comprehensive pulmonary function tests and imaging studies to assess lung involvement.
Patients with respiratory distress and a history of potential exposure to tularemia.
Document any respiratory complications and the response to treatment.
Used when confirming the diagnosis of pulmonary tularemia.
Document the source of the culture and clinical symptoms.
Infectious disease specialists should ensure cultures are properly labeled and handled.
Common symptoms include fever, cough, chest pain, and difficulty breathing, often following exposure to infected animals or environments.
