Plasmodium falciparum malaria
ICD-10 B52.0 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 known for its ability to cause severe illness and complications, including cerebral malaria, anemia, and multi-organ failure. Symptoms typically appear 9-14 days after infection and include fever, chills, headache, nausea, vomiting, and fatigue. Diagnosis is confirmed through blood tests that identify the presence of the parasite. Treatment involves the use of antimalarial medications, with artemisinin-based combination therapies (ACTs) being the first-line treatment. However, resistance to antimalarial drugs, particularly in certain regions, poses a significant challenge in managing this disease. Prophylaxis is recommended for travelers to endemic areas, utilizing medications such as atovaquone-proguanil, doxycycline, or mefloquine to prevent infection. Understanding the epidemiology, species identification, and resistance patterns is crucial for effective management and prevention of Plasmodium falciparum malaria.
Detailed patient history, travel history, laboratory results confirming species, and treatment plans.
Patients presenting with fever and travel history to endemic areas, severe malaria cases requiring hospitalization.
Ensure accurate documentation of symptoms and laboratory findings to support coding.
Documentation of prophylaxis measures taken, patient education on malaria risks, and follow-up care.
Travelers returning from endemic regions with symptoms, pre-travel consultations for prophylaxis.
Focus on preventive measures and patient education to ensure proper coding.
Used when diagnosing malaria in patients presenting with fever.
Document the reason for the test and the results.
Infectious disease specialists should ensure comprehensive documentation of test results.
The primary treatment for Plasmodium falciparum malaria is artemisinin-based combination therapy (ACT), which is effective against this species.
