Actinomycosis
ICD-10 A42 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of actinomycosis.
Actinomycosis is a chronic bacterial infection caused primarily by the Actinomyces species, which are anaerobic, gram-positive bacteria. This condition typically manifests as a localized abscess that can form in various body sites, including the cervicofacial region, thorax, abdomen, and pelvis. The infection often arises following trauma or surgery, particularly in immunocompromised patients, where the normal flora can become pathogenic. Actinomycosis is characterized by the formation of sulfur granules, which are yellowish clumps of bacteria that can be observed in pus or tissue samples. Diagnosis can be challenging due to its nonspecific symptoms, which may mimic other conditions such as malignancies or other infections. Imaging studies, such as CT scans or MRIs, may be necessary to assess the extent of the disease. Treatment typically involves prolonged courses of antibiotics, and in some cases, surgical intervention may be required to drain abscesses or remove infected tissue. Due to its chronic nature and potential for misdiagnosis, actinomycosis poses significant diagnostic challenges, particularly in patients with weakened immune systems.
Detailed clinical history, laboratory results, and imaging studies.
Patients presenting with chronic abscesses or unusual infections.
Ensure documentation reflects the chronic nature and treatment response.
Operative reports detailing surgical interventions and pathology results.
Surgical drainage of actinomycotic abscesses.
Document the extent of disease and any complications encountered.
Used when a patient presents with an actinomycosis-related abscess requiring drainage.
Document the size, location, and nature of the abscess.
Ensure the surgical report details the findings and any specimens sent for culture.
Common symptoms include swelling, pain, and the formation of abscesses in affected areas, often accompanied by fever and malaise.
Diagnosis is typically made through clinical evaluation, imaging studies, and microbiological culture of the organism from tissue or pus.
Treatment usually involves prolonged antibiotic therapy, often with penicillin, and may require surgical drainage of abscesses.
