Venezuelan equine encephalitis
ICD-10 A87.2 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of venezuelan equine encephalitis.
Venezuelan equine encephalitis (VEE) is a viral disease caused by the Venezuelan equine encephalitis virus (VEEV), which is primarily transmitted to humans through the bite of infected mosquitoes. The disease is characterized by inflammation of the central nervous system (CNS), leading to symptoms such as fever, headache, and neurological manifestations including confusion, seizures, and in severe cases, coma. The clinical presentation can vary widely, with some individuals experiencing mild flu-like symptoms while others may develop acute encephalitis. Neurological complications can include long-term cognitive deficits and motor impairments. Vaccination against VEE is available and is particularly recommended for individuals at high risk, such as those living in or traveling to endemic areas. The disease is more prevalent in certain regions of South America and the Caribbean, and outbreaks can occur, necessitating public health surveillance and response. Accurate diagnosis is crucial, often requiring serological testing or PCR to confirm the presence of the virus. Given the potential for severe outcomes, timely medical intervention is essential.
Detailed patient history, including travel history and vaccination status, as well as laboratory test results.
Patients presenting with fever and neurological symptoms after travel to endemic areas.
Consideration of other arboviral infections and the need for serological testing.
Neurological examination findings, imaging results, and treatment plans.
Patients with acute encephalitis symptoms requiring neurological evaluation.
Documentation of neurological deficits and follow-up assessments.
Used when testing for VEE and other arboviral infections.
Document the reason for testing and any relevant clinical findings.
Infectious disease specialists should ensure comprehensive testing for differential diagnoses.
Common symptoms include fever, headache, confusion, seizures, and in severe cases, coma. The severity can vary widely among individuals.
Yes, there is a vaccine available, particularly recommended for individuals at high risk, such as those living in or traveling to endemic areas.
