Streptococcal sore throat
ICD-10 A49.0 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of streptococcal sore throat.
Streptococcal sore throat, commonly known as strep throat, is an infection caused by group A Streptococcus bacteria. It primarily affects the throat and tonsils, leading to symptoms such as severe sore throat, fever, swollen lymph nodes, and white patches on the tonsils. In immunocompromised patients, the presentation may be atypical, and the infection can lead to more severe complications, such as rheumatic fever or post-streptococcal glomerulonephritis. Diagnostic challenges arise in these patients due to overlapping symptoms with viral infections and the potential for rapid deterioration. Accurate diagnosis often requires throat culture or rapid antigen detection tests. In cases of opportunistic infections, the presence of strep throat can exacerbate underlying conditions, making timely diagnosis and treatment critical. The condition is typically treated with antibiotics, which can reduce the duration of symptoms and prevent complications. However, in immunocompromised individuals, careful monitoring and possibly more aggressive treatment may be necessary to manage the infection effectively.
Thorough documentation of symptoms, test results, and treatment plans.
Patients presenting with sore throat, fever, and swollen lymph nodes.
Consideration of patient history, including immunocompromised status and previous infections.
Detailed history of immunocompromised conditions and any previous infections.
Management of strep throat in patients with HIV/AIDS or undergoing chemotherapy.
Need for aggressive treatment and monitoring for complications.
Used when a throat culture is performed to confirm strep throat.
Document the reason for the culture and the results.
Primary care providers should ensure cultures are documented in the patient's record.
Common symptoms include severe sore throat, fever, swollen lymph nodes, and white patches on the tonsils.
Diagnosis is typically made through clinical evaluation and confirmed with a throat culture or rapid antigen test.
Untreated strep throat can lead to complications such as rheumatic fever and post-streptococcal glomerulonephritis.
