Meningococcal meningitis, unspecified
ICD-10 A39.2 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of meningococcal meningitis, unspecified.
Meningococcal meningitis is a serious bacterial infection of the protective membranes covering the brain and spinal cord, caused by Neisseria meningitidis. This condition can lead to severe complications, including neurological damage and death if not treated promptly. Symptoms typically include sudden onset of fever, headache, stiff neck, nausea, vomiting, increased sensitivity to light, and altered mental status. The unspecified designation indicates that the specific serogroup of Neisseria meningitidis has not been identified, which can complicate treatment decisions and epidemiological tracking. Diagnosis is primarily through clinical evaluation and confirmed by lumbar puncture and cerebrospinal fluid analysis. Treatment usually involves intravenous antibiotics, such as ceftriaxone or penicillin, and may require adjunctive therapies to manage complications. Vaccination against meningococcal disease is a critical preventive measure, especially in high-risk populations.
Detailed clinical notes on symptoms, lab results, and treatment plans.
Diagnosis and management of meningitis in immunocompromised patients.
Ensure serogroup identification is documented when available.
Neurological assessments and imaging results.
Evaluation of neurological deficits in patients with suspected meningitis.
Document any neurological sequelae for accurate coding.
Used for diagnosis of meningitis.
Document indication for lumbar puncture and CSF findings.
Neurology specialists should ensure thorough documentation of neurological assessments.
Using A39.2 indicates that the specific serogroup of Neisseria meningitidis has not been identified, which can impact treatment decisions and epidemiological tracking. It is essential to document any known serogroups to avoid using this unspecified code.