Histoplasmosis
ICD-10 B39 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of histoplasmosis.
Histoplasmosis is a systemic fungal infection caused by the dimorphic fungus Histoplasma capsulatum. This organism is primarily found in soil enriched with bird or bat droppings, particularly in certain geographic areas such as the Ohio and Mississippi River valleys. The infection can manifest in various forms, ranging from asymptomatic pulmonary involvement to severe disseminated disease, especially in immunocompromised individuals. In healthy individuals, histoplasmosis often presents as a self-limiting respiratory illness, characterized by flu-like symptoms, cough, fever, and chest pain. However, in patients with weakened immune systems, such as those with HIV/AIDS, organ transplant recipients, or those on immunosuppressive therapy, the disease can progress to a more severe form, affecting multiple organ systems and leading to significant morbidity and mortality. Diagnosis is typically confirmed through serological tests, culture, or histopathological examination of tissue samples. Treatment usually involves antifungal medications, with itraconazole being the first-line therapy for mild to moderate cases, while severe cases may require amphotericin B. Early recognition and appropriate management are crucial to improving outcomes in affected patients.
Detailed clinical history, laboratory results, and treatment plans must be documented.
Patients presenting with respiratory symptoms, fever, and a history of exposure to endemic areas.
Documentation should clearly indicate the patient's immune status and any co-morbid conditions.
Pulmonary function tests, imaging studies, and response to treatment should be documented.
Patients with chronic cough, hemoptysis, or pneumonia-like symptoms.
Ensure that the relationship between histoplasmosis and respiratory symptoms is clearly articulated.
Used when confirming the presence of Histoplasma capsulatum in a patient with suspected histoplasmosis.
Document the reason for testing and any relevant clinical findings.
Infectious disease specialists should ensure that all relevant clinical data is included.
Common symptoms include fever, cough, chest pain, fatigue, and weight loss. In severe cases, it can lead to respiratory distress and systemic symptoms.
Diagnosis is typically made through a combination of clinical evaluation, serological tests, culture of the organism, and imaging studies.
Treatment usually involves antifungal medications such as itraconazole for mild to moderate cases, while severe cases may require amphotericin B.
Individuals who are immunocompromised, such as those with HIV/AIDS, organ transplant recipients, or those on immunosuppressive therapy, are at higher risk for severe disease.
