Plasmodium falciparum malaria
ICD-10 B52 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of plasmodium falciparum malaria.
Plasmodium falciparum malaria is a severe form of malaria caused by the Plasmodium falciparum parasite, which is transmitted to humans through the bite of infected Anopheles mosquitoes. This species is responsible for the majority of malaria-related morbidity and mortality worldwide. Clinical manifestations can range from mild flu-like symptoms to severe complications such as cerebral malaria, acute respiratory distress syndrome, and multi-organ failure. Diagnosis is typically confirmed through blood smears or rapid diagnostic tests that detect specific antigens. Treatment involves the use of antimalarial medications, with artemisinin-based combination therapies being the first-line treatment. However, resistance to antimalarial drugs, particularly artemisinin, has been reported in some regions, complicating treatment protocols. Prophylaxis is recommended for travelers to endemic areas and includes medications such as atovaquone-proguanil, doxycycline, or mefloquine, depending on the region and individual patient factors. Continuous monitoring of drug resistance patterns is essential for effective management and prevention of this life-threatening disease.
Detailed travel history, clinical symptoms, and laboratory results confirming diagnosis.
Patients presenting with fever and travel history to endemic areas.
Consideration of co-infections and resistance patterns in treatment.
Pre-travel consultation notes, prophylaxis prescriptions, and post-travel follow-up.
Travelers returning with febrile illness from endemic regions.
Emphasis on preventive measures and education on malaria risks.
Used for rapid diagnosis of malaria in patients presenting with fever.
Document the reason for the test and the patient's travel history.
Infectious disease specialists should ensure proper interpretation of test results.
Common symptoms include fever, chills, headache, nausea, vomiting, and muscle pain. Severe cases may present with neurological symptoms, respiratory distress, or multi-organ failure.
Diagnosis is typically made through blood smears or rapid diagnostic tests that detect specific antigens associated with the Plasmodium falciparum parasite.
Prophylactic measures include medications such as atovaquone-proguanil, doxycycline, or mefloquine, depending on the traveler's destination and individual health factors.
