Whooping cough, unspecified species without pneumonia
ICD-10 A37.90 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of whooping cough, unspecified species without pneumonia.
Whooping cough, or pertussis, is a highly contagious bacterial infection caused primarily by Bordetella pertussis. It is characterized by severe coughing fits that can lead to a 'whooping' sound during inhalation. The disease is particularly dangerous for infants and young children, but it can affect individuals of all ages. The infection typically begins with mild respiratory symptoms, including a runny nose, sneezing, and low-grade fever, which can progress to intense coughing episodes. In cases classified under A37.90, the infection is specified as 'unspecified species,' indicating that the exact strain of Bordetella is not identified, and it is noted that the patient does not have pneumonia, which is a common complication of pertussis. Treatment usually involves antibiotics, such as azithromycin or erythromycin, which are most effective when administered early in the course of the illness. Vaccination remains the most effective preventive measure against whooping cough, with the DTaP vaccine recommended for children and Tdap for adolescents and adults. Monitoring for complications, especially in vulnerable populations, is crucial for effective management.
Detailed history of cough, vaccination status, and any complications.
Infants presenting with severe cough and respiratory distress.
Close monitoring for complications in infants and timely vaccination updates.
Comprehensive lab results, culture reports, and treatment response.
Outbreak investigations and management of pertussis cases in adults.
Consideration of antibiotic resistance patterns and public health reporting.
Used for follow-up visits for patients diagnosed with whooping cough.
Document the patient's history, examination findings, and treatment plan.
Pediatricians should ensure vaccination history is reviewed.
The unspecified species indicates that the exact strain of Bordetella causing the infection has not been identified, which can occur in clinical practice when laboratory testing is not performed or is inconclusive.
