Meliodosis
ICD-10 A77.0 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of meliodosis.
Melioidosis is an infectious disease caused by the bacterium Burkholderia pseudomallei, which is primarily found in soil and water in endemic regions, particularly in Southeast Asia and northern Australia. The disease can manifest in various forms, ranging from localized skin infections to severe pneumonia and systemic infections. Transmission occurs through direct contact with contaminated soil or water, inhalation of aerosols, or ingestion of contaminated food or water. Symptoms may include fever, cough, chest pain, and abscess formation in various organs. Melioidosis is often misdiagnosed due to its nonspecific symptoms and can lead to significant morbidity and mortality if not treated promptly. The disease is particularly prevalent in individuals with underlying health conditions such as diabetes, chronic lung disease, or immunosuppression. Diagnosis is typically confirmed through culture of the organism from clinical specimens, and treatment involves prolonged courses of antibiotics, often starting with intravenous therapy. Given its association with travel to endemic areas, awareness of melioidosis is crucial for healthcare providers managing patients with relevant travel histories.
Detailed patient history, including travel history and exposure risks.
Patients presenting with fever and respiratory symptoms after travel to endemic regions.
Ensure thorough documentation of diagnostic tests and treatment plans.
Pulmonary function tests and imaging studies to assess lung involvement.
Patients with pneumonia-like symptoms and a history of exposure to contaminated environments.
Document any underlying lung conditions that may complicate the diagnosis.
Used when confirming Burkholderia pseudomallei in suspected melioidosis cases.
Document the clinical suspicion and rationale for the culture.
Infectious disease specialists should ensure comprehensive documentation of the patient's history.
Common symptoms include fever, cough, chest pain, and localized infections such as skin ulcers. Severe cases may present with septic shock.
Diagnosis is typically confirmed through culture of Burkholderia pseudomallei from clinical specimens, along with a thorough patient history.
Treatment usually involves a prolonged course of antibiotics, starting with intravenous therapy followed by oral antibiotics for several months.
