Coccidioidomycosis
ICD-10 B38 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of coccidioidomycosis.
Coccidioidomycosis, commonly known as Valley Fever, is a fungal infection caused by the inhalation of spores from the Coccidioides species, primarily C. immitis and C. posadasii. This disease is endemic to certain regions, particularly the southwestern United States, parts of Mexico, and Central and South America. The infection can manifest as a mild respiratory illness, but in some cases, it can progress to more severe forms, including disseminated disease affecting the skin, bones, and central nervous system. Symptoms may include fever, cough, chest pain, fatigue, and in severe cases, meningitis. The risk of severe disease is significantly higher in immunocompromised patients, such as those with HIV/AIDS, cancer, or those on immunosuppressive therapy. Diagnosis is typically made through clinical evaluation, serological tests, and imaging studies. Treatment often involves antifungal medications such as fluconazole or itraconazole, particularly in cases of severe or disseminated disease. Early recognition and appropriate management are crucial to prevent complications.
Detailed patient history, including travel and exposure history, clinical symptoms, and laboratory results.
Patients presenting with respiratory symptoms after travel to endemic areas, or those with disseminated disease.
Ensure documentation reflects the severity of the disease and any underlying immunocompromising conditions.
Pulmonary function tests, imaging studies, and treatment response documentation.
Patients with chronic cough, chest pain, or pneumonia-like symptoms.
Documenting the presence of any underlying lung disease that may complicate the infection.
Used to confirm diagnosis in suspected cases of Coccidioidomycosis.
Document the reason for testing and clinical findings.
Infectious disease specialists should ensure comprehensive documentation of clinical context.
Common symptoms include fever, cough, chest pain, fatigue, and in severe cases, skin lesions or neurological symptoms.
Treatment typically involves antifungal medications such as fluconazole or itraconazole, especially in cases of severe or disseminated disease.
