Leishmaniasis, other specified
ICD-10 B51.8 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of leishmaniasis, other specified.
Leishmaniasis is a parasitic disease caused by protozoa of the genus Leishmania, transmitted through the bite of infected sandflies. The condition manifests in various forms, including cutaneous, mucocutaneous, and visceral leishmaniasis. The 'other specified' designation under code B51.8 indicates cases that do not fit neatly into the more common classifications of leishmaniasis, such as those caused by less prevalent species or atypical presentations. Clinically, leishmaniasis can present with skin lesions, fever, weight loss, and splenomegaly, depending on the form of the disease. Diagnosis typically involves clinical evaluation, serological tests, and sometimes biopsy of lesions. Treatment varies based on the species involved and the severity of the disease, with options including antimonial compounds, amphotericin B, and miltefosine. The emergence of antimalarial resistance in related parasitic infections highlights the importance of accurate species identification and tailored treatment strategies.
Detailed clinical history, laboratory results, and treatment plans.
Patients presenting with skin lesions or systemic symptoms after travel to endemic areas.
Consideration of co-infections and travel history is crucial for accurate coding.
Photographic evidence of lesions, biopsy results, and treatment response.
Patients with cutaneous leishmaniasis presenting with ulcerative skin lesions.
Documentation should clearly differentiate leishmaniasis from other dermatological conditions.
Used when biopsy of leishmaniasis lesions is performed.
Pathology report and clinical notes detailing the lesion.
Infectious disease specialists should ensure accurate coding of pathology results.
Specifying the type of leishmaniasis is crucial for determining the appropriate treatment and understanding the disease's epidemiology. Different species may have varying resistance patterns and clinical presentations.
