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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesA31.8

A31.8

Other mycobacterial diseases of other organs

BILLABLE STATUSYes
IMPLEMENTATION DATEOctober 1, 2015
LAST UPDATED09/05/2025

Code Description

ICD-10 A31.8 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of other mycobacterial diseases of other organs.

Key Diagnostic Point:

A31.8 encompasses various mycobacterial infections that affect organs other than the lungs, which are primarily associated with Mycobacterium species. These infections can manifest in various forms, including cutaneous, lymphatic, and disseminated diseases. Mycobacterium avium complex (MAC) is a common cause of these infections, particularly in immunocompromised patients, such as those with HIV/AIDS. Symptoms may vary widely depending on the organ involved, ranging from localized lesions to systemic symptoms like fever and weight loss. Diagnosis typically involves culture and sensitivity testing, as well as imaging studies to assess the extent of the disease. Treatment protocols often include a combination of antibiotics, such as azithromycin and rifabutin, tailored to the specific mycobacterial species and the patient's immune status. Resistance patterns are a significant concern, particularly with MAC, where multi-drug resistance can complicate treatment regimens. Understanding the nuances of these infections is crucial for effective management and accurate coding.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Variety of mycobacterial species involved
  • Differential diagnosis with other bacterial infections
  • Need for detailed documentation of organ involvement
  • Potential for co-infections in immunocompromised patients

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of the specific mycobacterial species
  • Failure to document the patient's immune status
  • Lack of clarity on the organ affected
  • Inconsistent coding of co-infections

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Infectious Disease

Documentation Requirements

Detailed clinical notes on the patient's history, symptoms, and diagnostic tests performed.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients presenting with fever, weight loss, and lymphadenopathy, particularly in immunocompromised individuals.

Billing Considerations

Ensure accurate documentation of the specific mycobacterial species and any resistance patterns observed.

Pulmonology

Documentation Requirements

Comprehensive pulmonary function tests and imaging studies to rule out pulmonary involvement.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients with respiratory symptoms who may also have extrapulmonary mycobacterial infections.

Billing Considerations

Document any respiratory symptoms thoroughly to differentiate from primary pulmonary infections.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use A31.8 When
  • According to ICD
  • 10 guidelines, A31
  • 8 should be used when the mycobacterial disease is confirmed and affects organs other than the lungs
  • It is essential to document the specific organ involved and any relevant clinical findings

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use A31.8 When
  • Exclusion criteria include cases where the infection is primarily pulmonary or where the mycobacterial disease is not confirmed

Related CPT Codes

87070CPT Code

Culture, bacterial, aerobic, with isolation and identification of organism

Clinical Scenario

Used when mycobacterial cultures are performed.

Documentation Requirements

Document the type of culture and results.

Specialty Considerations

Infectious disease specialists should ensure accurate reporting of culture results.

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of mycobacterial diseases, improving the ability to track and manage these infections. A31.8 provides a distinct code for extrapulmonary mycobacterial diseases, which was less clearly defined in ICD-9.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of mycobacterial diseases, improving the ability to track and manage these infections. A31.8 provides a distinct code for extrapulmonary mycobacterial diseases, which was less clearly defined in ICD-9.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of mycobacterial diseases, improving the ability to track and manage these infections. A31.8 provides a distinct code for extrapulmonary mycobacterial diseases, which was less clearly defined in ICD-9.

Resources

Clinical References

  • •
    CDC Mycobacteria Information

Coding & Billing References

  • •
    CDC Mycobacteria Information

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the common symptoms of mycobacterial diseases affecting other organs?

Symptoms can vary widely but may include fever, weight loss, localized pain, and systemic symptoms depending on the organ involved.

How is mycobacterial disease diagnosed?

Diagnosis typically involves clinical evaluation, imaging studies, and microbiological confirmation through cultures or PCR testing.

What treatment options are available for mycobacterial diseases?

Treatment often includes a combination of antibiotics tailored to the specific mycobacterial species and may require prolonged therapy, especially in immunocompromised patients.