Whooping cough due to Bordetella parapertussis with pneumonia
ICD-10 A37.11 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of whooping cough due to bordetella parapertussis with pneumonia.
Whooping cough, or pertussis, is primarily caused by the bacterium Bordetella pertussis; however, Bordetella parapertussis can also cause a similar illness, albeit typically less severe. The condition is characterized by severe coughing fits that can lead to complications such as pneumonia, particularly in infants and young children. The cough is often paroxysmal, followed by a high-pitched 'whoop' sound during inhalation. When pneumonia is present, it indicates a more severe manifestation of the infection, which can lead to significant morbidity. Diagnosis is usually confirmed through clinical evaluation and laboratory testing, including PCR assays or culture of nasopharyngeal secretions. Treatment typically involves antibiotics such as azithromycin or clarithromycin, which are most effective when administered early in the course of the illness. Supportive care, including hydration and monitoring for respiratory distress, is also critical, especially in young patients. Resistance patterns for Bordetella parapertussis are less well-studied than those for B. pertussis, but antibiotic resistance is a growing concern in bacterial infections, necessitating careful selection of treatment regimens.
Detailed history of cough, vaccination status, and clinical findings.
Infants presenting with severe cough and respiratory distress.
Consideration of age-related risks and vaccination history.
Laboratory confirmation of Bordetella species and assessment of antibiotic susceptibility.
Patients with atypical presentations or recurrent infections.
Monitoring for antibiotic resistance patterns.
Used for follow-up visits after diagnosis of whooping cough.
Document history, examination findings, and treatment plan.
Pediatricians should ensure vaccination history is included.
Bordetella pertussis is the primary causative agent of whooping cough, while Bordetella parapertussis can cause a similar but typically milder form of the disease. Accurate identification is crucial for treatment and epidemiological tracking.
