Pyuria
ICD-10 R82.81 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of pyuria.
Pyuria is defined as the presence of white blood cells (WBCs) in the urine, which is often indicative of an underlying infection or inflammation in the urinary tract. Clinically, pyuria is characterized by cloudy urine, which may also have a foul odor. It can be detected through urinalysis, where the presence of WBCs is quantified. Pyuria can occur in various conditions, including urinary tract infections (UTIs), kidney infections, and sexually transmitted infections. It may also be associated with non-infectious causes such as interstitial nephritis or certain malignancies. The clinical significance of pyuria lies in its potential to indicate a serious underlying condition, necessitating further investigation and management. In the absence of other symptoms, pyuria may not always correlate with a UTI, making it essential for clinicians to consider the patient's overall clinical picture and history when interpreting this finding.
Clear documentation of symptoms, lab findings, and any associated conditions is essential. The clinician should note the patient's history and any relevant risk factors.
Patients presenting with urinary symptoms such as dysuria, frequency, or urgency, alongside pyuria findings.
Consideration of chronic conditions like diabetes or immunosuppression that may predispose patients to infections.
Acute care documentation must include a thorough history and physical examination, noting any acute symptoms and lab results.
Patients presenting with acute flank pain, fever, or other systemic symptoms alongside pyuria.
Rapid assessment of potential serious conditions such as pyelonephritis or urosepsis.
Used when a urinalysis is performed to evaluate for pyuria.
Documentation must include the reason for the urinalysis and any relevant clinical findings.
In emergency settings, rapid results may influence immediate treatment decisions.
Pyuria is a significant clinical finding that often indicates an underlying infection or inflammation in the urinary tract, necessitating further evaluation and management.
