Rat-bite fever
ICD-10 A24 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of rat-bite fever.
Rat-bite fever is a zoonotic infectious disease caused by two different bacteria: Streptobacillus moniliformis and Spirillum minus. It is primarily transmitted to humans through bites or scratches from infected rats, or through contact with contaminated food or water. The disease is characterized by fever, chills, headache, muscle pain, and sometimes a rash. In severe cases, it can lead to complications such as endocarditis or septic arthritis. The incubation period typically ranges from 2 to 10 days after exposure. Diagnosis is often made based on clinical symptoms and history of exposure, with laboratory confirmation through blood cultures or serological tests. Public health considerations are significant, as rat-bite fever is more prevalent in areas with poor sanitation and high rodent populations. Preventive measures include rodent control and public education about the risks associated with handling rats or consuming contaminated food. Awareness of this disease is crucial for healthcare providers, especially in endemic regions, to ensure timely diagnosis and treatment.
Detailed patient history including exposure to rodents, clinical symptoms, and laboratory results.
Patients presenting with fever and a history of rodent exposure.
Ensure that laboratory results are clearly documented to support the diagnosis.
Comprehensive patient history and physical examination findings.
Patients with unexplained fever and potential exposure to rats.
Educate patients on the importance of reporting rodent exposure.
Used to confirm diagnosis of rat-bite fever.
Document the source of the culture and clinical symptoms.
Infectious disease specialists should ensure cultures are taken from appropriate sites.
Common symptoms include fever, chills, headache, muscle pain, and sometimes a rash. Severe cases may lead to complications such as endocarditis.
