Enteric yersiniosis
Chapter 1:Certain infectious and parasitic diseases
ICD-10 A20.8 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of enteric yersiniosis.
Enteric yersiniosis is an infectious disease caused by the bacterium Yersinia enterocolitica, which primarily affects the gastrointestinal tract. This zoonotic infection is commonly transmitted through the consumption of contaminated food, particularly undercooked pork, unpasteurized milk, and contaminated water. Symptoms typically include fever, abdominal pain, diarrhea (which may be bloody), and vomiting. In some cases, the infection can mimic appendicitis, leading to misdiagnosis. The disease is more prevalent in children and can lead to complications such as reactive arthritis or, in rare cases, septicemia. Public health measures focus on food safety, proper cooking techniques, and hygiene practices to prevent outbreaks. Surveillance of animal reservoirs, particularly pigs, is crucial as they are the primary source of human infections. The disease is not typically transmitted from person to person, making it essential to identify and control sources of contamination in food production and handling.
Detailed patient history, laboratory results, and treatment plans.
Patients presenting with gastrointestinal symptoms after consuming potentially contaminated food.
Ensure accurate documentation of exposure history and laboratory confirmation.
Endoscopy reports, biopsy results, and symptom descriptions.
Patients with abdominal pain and diarrhea, particularly in pediatric populations.
Differentiating enteric yersiniosis from other gastrointestinal disorders.
Used when stool cultures are performed to confirm Yersinia enterocolitica.
Document the reason for the culture and any relevant patient history.
Infectious disease specialists may require additional details on exposure history.
Common sources include undercooked pork, unpasteurized milk, and contaminated water. Proper food handling and cooking practices are essential to prevent infection.