Other forms of blastomycosis
ICD-10 B40.89 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of other forms of blastomycosis.
Blastomycosis is a systemic fungal infection caused by the dimorphic fungus Blastomyces dermatitidis, primarily affecting the lungs but can disseminate to other organs. Other forms of blastomycosis refer to atypical presentations of the disease that do not fit the classic pulmonary or cutaneous forms. These may include disseminated disease affecting the bones, joints, or central nervous system, particularly in immunocompromised patients. Symptoms can vary widely, including fever, cough, weight loss, and skin lesions. Diagnosis typically involves clinical evaluation, imaging studies, and laboratory tests such as culture or serology. Treatment usually requires antifungal therapy, with itraconazole and amphotericin B being the most common agents. The complexity of coding for other forms of blastomycosis arises from the need to accurately document the specific manifestations and the patient's immune status, as these factors significantly influence treatment and prognosis.
Detailed clinical history, laboratory results, and treatment plans.
Patients presenting with atypical symptoms of blastomycosis, particularly in immunocompromised individuals.
Ensure thorough documentation of all symptoms and laboratory findings to support the diagnosis.
Pulmonary function tests, imaging studies, and treatment response assessments.
Patients with respiratory symptoms and a history of exposure to endemic areas.
Document any pulmonary complications or co-existing lung diseases.
Used when a fungal infection is suspected and needs confirmation.
Document the reason for the culture and any relevant clinical findings.
Infectious disease specialists should ensure comprehensive documentation of the patient's history and symptoms.
Symptoms can include fever, cough, weight loss, skin lesions, and bone pain, depending on the site of infection.
Diagnosis typically involves clinical evaluation, imaging studies, and laboratory tests such as culture or serology.
Common treatments include itraconazole and amphotericin B, depending on the severity and location of the infection.
