Rat-bite fever
ICD-10 A24.2 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of rat-bite fever.
Rat-bite fever is a zoonotic infectious disease caused primarily by two bacteria: Streptobacillus moniliformis and Spirillum minus. It is transmitted to humans through bites or scratches from infected rats or through contact with their urine or feces. The disease is characterized by fever, rash, and joint pain, and can lead to severe complications if left untreated. The incubation period typically ranges from 3 to 10 days post-exposure. Symptoms may include high fever, chills, headache, muscle pain, and a rash that can appear on the trunk and extremities. In severe cases, it can lead to septic arthritis or endocarditis. Diagnosis is often made based on clinical presentation and history of exposure, with laboratory confirmation through blood cultures or serological tests. Treatment usually involves antibiotics, with penicillin being the drug of choice. Public health measures focus on rodent control and educating communities about the risks associated with handling rats and their environments.
Detailed patient history, laboratory results, and treatment plans.
Patients presenting with fever and a history of rodent exposure.
Ensure all symptoms and laboratory findings are documented to support the diagnosis.
Comprehensive patient history and symptom assessment.
Patients with unexplained fever and potential exposure to rodents.
Documenting travel history and potential exposure to rodents is crucial.
Used when confirming the diagnosis of rat-bite fever.
Document the source of the culture and clinical indications.
Infectious disease specialists may require additional tests.
Common symptoms include fever, rash, joint pain, and in severe cases, septic arthritis or endocarditis.
Diagnosis is based on clinical presentation, history of exposure to rats, and laboratory confirmation through blood cultures or serological tests.
