Other specified bacterial diseases
ICD-10 A48.8 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of other specified bacterial diseases.
A48.8 encompasses a variety of bacterial infections that do not fall under more specific categories. These infections can be particularly challenging to diagnose and treat, especially in immunocompromised patients who are at increased risk for opportunistic infections. Such patients may include those with HIV/AIDS, cancer, or those undergoing immunosuppressive therapy. The clinical presentation of these infections can be atypical, leading to diagnostic challenges. Symptoms may vary widely depending on the pathogen involved and the patient's underlying health status. Commonly encountered pathogens in this category include less common strains of bacteria that can cause severe infections, such as certain strains of Mycobacterium, Listeria, and others. The complexity of diagnosing these infections often requires advanced microbiological techniques and a high index of suspicion from healthcare providers. Furthermore, the treatment regimens may differ significantly from standard bacterial infections, necessitating careful consideration of the patient's overall health and potential drug interactions.
Detailed microbiological test results, patient history, and treatment response.
Patients presenting with atypical infections, particularly those with a history of immunosuppression.
Ensure thorough documentation of all diagnostic tests performed and their results.
Comprehensive records of the patient's cancer treatment and any immunosuppressive therapies.
Cancer patients developing opportunistic infections during or after chemotherapy.
Document the patient's cancer type and treatment regimen to support the diagnosis.
Used when a bacterial infection is suspected and cultures are taken.
Document the source of the culture and the clinical rationale for testing.
Infectious disease specialists may require more detailed documentation of the patient's history.
A48.8 includes a variety of bacterial infections that do not fit into more specific categories, particularly those affecting immunocompromised patients.
Accurate coding requires thorough documentation of the patient's clinical presentation, laboratory results, and any underlying conditions that may contribute to the infection.
