Anaplasmosis [A. phagocytophilum]
ICD-10 A79.82 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of anaplasmosis [a. phagocytophilum].
Anaplasmosis is a tick-borne infectious disease caused by the bacterium Anaplasma phagocytophilum, primarily transmitted through the bite of infected Ixodes ticks, commonly known as deer ticks. The disease is characterized by symptoms such as fever, chills, headache, muscle aches, and malaise, which typically appear within 1 to 2 weeks after the tick bite. Severe cases can lead to complications such as respiratory failure, renal failure, or even death, particularly in immunocompromised individuals. Diagnosis is often confirmed through serological testing or PCR assays that detect the presence of the bacteria in the blood. Anaplasmosis is prevalent in certain geographic regions, particularly in the northeastern and north-central United States, and is considered a significant public health concern due to its increasing incidence. The condition is part of a broader category of rickettsial diseases, which are also vector-borne and can present with overlapping symptoms, making accurate diagnosis and coding essential for effective treatment and epidemiological tracking.
Detailed clinical notes including symptom onset, exposure history, and laboratory results.
Patients presenting with fever and recent outdoor activities in endemic areas.
Consideration of co-infections and comprehensive testing for accurate diagnosis.
Thorough patient history and physical examination findings.
Patients with flu-like symptoms and potential tick exposure.
Awareness of local epidemiology and timely referral to specialists if needed.
Used when laboratory testing confirms anaplasmosis.
Laboratory results must be documented in the patient's medical record.
Infectious disease specialists should ensure comprehensive testing is performed.
Common symptoms include fever, chills, headache, muscle aches, and malaise, which typically appear 1-2 weeks after a tick bite.
Diagnosis is confirmed through serological testing or PCR assays that detect A. phagocytophilum in the blood.
The first-line treatment for anaplasmosis is doxycycline, which is effective if administered early in the course of the disease.
