Rabies
ICD-10 A82.0 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of rabies.
Rabies is a viral infection caused by the rabies virus, which is a member of the Lyssavirus genus. It primarily affects mammals, including humans, and is transmitted through the saliva of infected animals, often via bites. The virus travels along peripheral nerves to the central nervous system (CNS), leading to severe neurological complications. Initial symptoms may include fever, headache, and malaise, which can progress to more severe manifestations such as hydrophobia, paralysis, and ultimately, coma and death if left untreated. The incubation period can vary, typically ranging from one to three months, but can be shorter or longer depending on the site of entry and viral load. Vaccination status is crucial in the management of rabies; post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) with rabies vaccine and rabies immune globulin is highly effective if administered promptly after exposure. Without treatment, rabies is almost universally fatal once clinical symptoms appear, making early recognition and intervention critical.
Thorough documentation of exposure history, vaccination status, and clinical symptoms.
Patients presenting with animal bites, neurological symptoms following exposure, or post-exposure prophylaxis management.
Ensure accurate documentation of vaccination history and timely intervention to avoid fatal outcomes.
Detailed neurological assessments and documentation of symptom progression.
Patients with acute neurological symptoms following potential rabies exposure.
Differentiating rabies from other neurological disorders is critical for accurate coding.
Administered as post-exposure prophylaxis following potential rabies exposure.
Document the date of administration, dosage, and patient response.
Infectious disease specialists should ensure proper follow-up and monitoring.
Vaccination status is critical in determining the appropriate coding for rabies, as it influences the management and treatment plan. Accurate documentation of whether the patient has received pre-exposure or post-exposure prophylaxis is essential for proper coding and billing.
