Pulmonary mycobacterial infection
ICD-10 A31.1 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of pulmonary mycobacterial infection.
Pulmonary mycobacterial infection refers to infections of the lungs caused by non-tuberculous mycobacteria (NTM), which are environmental organisms found in soil and water. The most common species associated with pulmonary infections include Mycobacterium avium complex (MAC), Mycobacterium kansasii, and Mycobacterium abscessus. These infections can occur in individuals with underlying lung disease, such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) or cystic fibrosis, and in immunocompromised patients. Symptoms may include chronic cough, hemoptysis, weight loss, and fatigue. Diagnosis typically involves a combination of clinical evaluation, imaging studies (such as chest X-rays or CT scans), and microbiological testing, including culture and molecular methods. Treatment often requires prolonged antibiotic therapy, typically involving a combination of macrolides, rifamycins, and ethambutol, tailored to the specific mycobacterial species and susceptibility patterns. Resistance to treatment can occur, necessitating careful monitoring and potential adjustment of therapy.
Detailed clinical history, imaging results, and microbiological test results.
Patients presenting with chronic cough and weight loss, suspected NTM infections.
Ensure accurate species identification and treatment response monitoring.
Comprehensive review of patient history, including immunocompromised status and previous infections.
Management of complex cases with multiple comorbidities and resistance patterns.
Document rationale for antibiotic choices and adjustments based on susceptibility testing.
Used when a patient presents with symptoms suggestive of pulmonary mycobacterial infection.
Document the reason for the culture and any prior treatments.
Pulmonologists should ensure that cultures are sent for specific mycobacterial identification.
Pulmonary mycobacterial infections are primarily caused by non-tuberculous mycobacteria, particularly Mycobacterium avium complex, which are found in the environment.
