Actinomycotic meningitis
ICD-10 A42.81 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of actinomycotic meningitis.
Actinomycotic meningitis is a rare form of meningitis caused by the Actinomyces species, which are anaerobic bacteria typically found in the oral cavity and gastrointestinal tract. This condition primarily affects immunocompromised individuals, such as those with HIV/AIDS, cancer, or those undergoing immunosuppressive therapy. The clinical presentation may include fever, headache, neck stiffness, altered mental status, and other neurological deficits. Diagnosis can be challenging due to the nonspecific nature of symptoms and the difficulty in isolating the organism from cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). Imaging studies, such as MRI or CT scans, may show meningeal enhancement or other signs of infection. Treatment typically involves prolonged antibiotic therapy, often requiring a combination of penicillin and other agents, and may necessitate surgical intervention in cases of abscess formation. Early recognition and appropriate management are crucial to improve outcomes in affected patients.
Detailed clinical notes including patient history, symptoms, lab results, and treatment plans.
Patients presenting with fever and neurological symptoms, particularly in those with known immunocompromised conditions.
Ensure comprehensive documentation of the patient's immunocompromised status and any prior infections.
Neurological examination findings, imaging results, and differential diagnoses.
Patients with altered mental status and neurological deficits requiring differential diagnosis of meningitis.
Document all neurological assessments and imaging studies to support the diagnosis.
Used when obtaining CSF cultures to confirm actinomycotic meningitis.
Document the source of the culture and the clinical indication for testing.
Infectious disease specialists should ensure that cultures are properly labeled and processed.
Common symptoms include fever, headache, neck stiffness, altered mental status, and neurological deficits. Symptoms may vary based on the patient's immune status.
Diagnosis typically involves clinical evaluation, CSF analysis, and imaging studies. Cultures may be necessary to confirm the presence of Actinomyces species.
