Babesiosis due to Babesia divergens
ICD-10 B60.03 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of babesiosis due to babesia divergens.
Babesiosis is a protozoal infection caused by the genus Babesia, with Babesia divergens being one of the species responsible for human infections. This disease is primarily transmitted through the bite of infected Ixodes ticks, commonly known as deer ticks. Babesia divergens is particularly prevalent in Europe and is associated with severe disease in individuals with compromised immune systems, such as those with splenectomy or other underlying health conditions. Clinical manifestations of babesiosis can range from asymptomatic to severe illness, characterized by symptoms such as fever, chills, sweats, headache, myalgia, and fatigue. Severe cases may lead to hemolytic anemia, thrombocytopenia, and multi-organ failure. Diagnosis is typically confirmed through blood smear examination, PCR testing, or serological assays. Treatment usually involves antimalarial medications such as atovaquone combined with azithromycin or clindamycin and quinine for more severe cases. Prompt diagnosis and treatment are crucial to prevent complications, especially in high-risk populations.
Detailed patient history including travel and exposure history, laboratory results, and treatment response.
Patients presenting with fever and history of tick exposure, especially in endemic areas.
Consideration of co-infections and the patient's immune status is crucial for accurate coding.
Thorough documentation of symptoms, travel history, and any relevant lab tests.
Patients with flu-like symptoms after outdoor activities in tick-endemic regions.
Awareness of local epidemiology and potential for misdiagnosis with other febrile illnesses.
Used when testing for Babesia in patients with suspected infection.
Document the reason for testing and any relevant clinical findings.
Infectious disease specialists should ensure comprehensive documentation of patient history.
Common symptoms include fever, chills, sweats, headache, myalgia, and fatigue. Severe cases may present with hemolytic anemia and multi-organ failure.
Diagnosis is typically made through blood smear examination, PCR testing, or serological assays to confirm the presence of Babesia parasites.
Treatment usually involves antimalarial medications such as atovaquone combined with azithromycin or clindamycin and quinine for severe cases.
