In simple words: Rat-bite fever is an infection you can get from a rat bite or scratch, or by eating or drinking something contaminated by rats.There are two types of rat-bite fever, but this code is used when the doctor doesn't specify which type it is.

Rat-bite fever (RBF) is an infectious disease transmitted by infected rodents through skin scratches and bites or ingested with contaminated food or water. RBF can be caused by two bacteria; *Streptobacillus moniliformis* causes streptobacillary RBF and *Spirillum minus* causes spirillary RBF or sodoku.This code is used when the specific type of rat-bite fever is not documented.

Example 1: A patient presents with fever, headache, muscle and joint pain, and a rash after being bitten by a rat. The specific type of rat-bite fever is not determined, so A25.9 is used., A patient who consumed food contaminated by rodents develops fever, vomiting, and chills. Without specific bacteria identification, the diagnosis is coded as A25.9., A child with a history of playing in a rat-infested area presents with relapsing fever and swollen lymph nodes.In the absence of further testing to identify the specific type of rat-bite fever, A25.9 is assigned.

Documentation should include details of the rat bite or exposure to rodents, the presenting symptoms (fever, rash, joint pain, etc.), and any laboratory test results. If antibiotics are prescribed, the type and duration of treatment should be documented.

** This code represents a diagnosis of rat-bite fever, unspecified, which may require further investigation to identify the causative agent and tailor treatment appropriately.For accurate reporting and reimbursement, appropriate documentation of the clinical findings and treatment plan is crucial.As of today, November 30, 2024, this information is current, but it's always recommended to consult the latest ICD-10-CM coding guidelines for any updates.