Rocky Mountain spotted fever
ICD-10 A77.4 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of rocky mountain spotted fever.
Rocky Mountain spotted fever (RMSF) is a tick-borne illness caused by the bacterium Rickettsia rickettsii. It is primarily transmitted to humans through the bite of infected ticks, particularly the American dog tick, the Rocky Mountain wood tick, and the brown dog tick. The disease is characterized by a sudden onset of fever, headache, and a distinctive rash that typically appears 2-5 days after the onset of fever. The rash often starts as small, flat, pink spots that can progress to petechiae and purpura. If left untreated, RMSF can lead to severe complications, including organ failure and death. Diagnosis is primarily based on clinical presentation and history of tick exposure, often supplemented by serological tests. Early recognition and treatment with appropriate antibiotics, such as doxycycline, are crucial for a favorable outcome. RMSF is endemic in certain regions of the United States, particularly in the southeastern and south-central states, but cases can occur in travelers returning from endemic areas. Awareness of the disease is essential for healthcare providers, especially in areas where tick exposure is common.
Detailed patient history, including travel history and tick exposure, clinical symptoms, and laboratory results.
Patients presenting with fever, rash, and history of tick exposure.
Consideration of differential diagnoses and the need for timely treatment documentation.
Comprehensive patient history, symptom documentation, and follow-up care notes.
Patients with febrile illness and potential exposure to ticks.
Awareness of endemic areas and patient education on tick prevention.
Used when RMSF is suspected based on clinical presentation.
Document the reason for testing and clinical findings.
Infectious disease specialists may order this test more frequently.
Common symptoms include fever, headache, rash, and muscle pain. The rash typically appears 2-5 days after the onset of fever.
Diagnosis is based on clinical symptoms, history of tick exposure, and serological testing for Rickettsia rickettsii.
The primary treatment is doxycycline, which is most effective when started early in the course of the disease.
