West Nile virus infection
ICD-10 A92 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of west nile virus infection.
West Nile virus infection is an arthropod-borne viral disease primarily transmitted to humans through the bite of infected mosquitoes. The virus, which belongs to the flavivirus genus, can lead to a range of clinical manifestations, from asymptomatic infection to severe neurological disease. Symptoms typically appear 3 to 14 days after exposure and may include fever, headache, body aches, joint pain, vomiting, diarrhea, and rash. In severe cases, the infection can progress to neuroinvasive diseases such as meningitis or encephalitis, which can result in long-term neurological complications or death. Risk factors for severe disease include age, immunocompromised status, and certain underlying health conditions. Travel history is crucial in diagnosing West Nile virus, especially for patients returning from endemic areas. Laboratory confirmation is often achieved through serological testing for IgM antibodies or PCR testing of cerebrospinal fluid in cases of neurological involvement. Public health measures focus on mosquito control and personal protective measures to reduce transmission.
Detailed travel history, symptom onset, and laboratory results.
Patients presenting with fever and neurological symptoms after travel to endemic areas.
Ensure all relevant tests and symptoms are documented to support the diagnosis.
Neurological examination findings, imaging results, and treatment plans.
Patients with encephalitis or meningitis symptoms linked to West Nile virus.
Documenting the severity of neurological involvement is critical for accurate coding.
Used to confirm diagnosis in suspected cases.
Document the reason for testing and results.
Infectious disease specialists should ensure comprehensive testing is documented.
Common symptoms include fever, headache, body aches, joint pain, vomiting, diarrhea, and rash. Severe cases may present with neurological symptoms such as confusion, seizures, or paralysis.
Diagnosis is typically made through clinical evaluation, travel history, and laboratory testing for antibodies or viral RNA.