Yaws
ICD-10 A66 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of yaws.
Yaws is a chronic infectious disease caused by the spirochete Treponema pallidum subspecies pertenue. It primarily affects the skin, bones, and joints, presenting initially with a painless skin lesion known as a 'yaw.' If left untreated, the disease can progress to cause disfiguring lesions and severe bone and joint deformities. Yaws is transmitted through direct contact with the skin lesions of an infected person, typically in tropical and subtropical regions. The disease is endemic in parts of Africa, Southeast Asia, and the Pacific Islands, where it predominantly affects children aged 6 to 15 years. Diagnosis is primarily clinical, supported by serological tests. Treatment is effective with a single dose of benzathine penicillin, which can cure the infection and prevent complications. Public health initiatives have focused on the eradication of yaws, emphasizing early detection and treatment to reduce transmission and morbidity.
Detailed clinical history, serological test results, and treatment plans.
Diagnosis and management of yaws in endemic populations.
Awareness of local epidemiology and potential co-infections.
Growth and development assessments, vaccination history, and family history.
Presentation of skin lesions in children from endemic areas.
Consideration of other childhood infections that may present similarly.
Used to confirm diagnosis of yaws in endemic areas.
Document the reason for testing and results.
Infectious disease specialists should ensure comprehensive testing.
Yaws is a chronic infectious disease caused by the spirochete Treponema pallidum subspecies pertenue, primarily affecting the skin, bones, and joints.
Yaws is transmitted through direct contact with the skin lesions of an infected person, typically in tropical and subtropical regions.
Symptoms include painless skin lesions, joint pain, and, if untreated, can lead to severe deformities.
Yaws is effectively treated with a single dose of benzathine penicillin.
