2025 ICD-10-CM code A44.8
This code represents other forms of bartonellosis not otherwise specified.
Medical necessity is established by the signs, symptoms, and laboratory confirmation of a Bartonella infection not fitting a more specific diagnosis.The documentation should support the need for diagnostic testing and any related treatment, such as antibiotics.
Clinicians diagnose other forms of bartonellosis based on patient history, physical examination findings, and laboratory testing of blood samples to identify the specific Bartonella strain.Treatment may involve antibiotics in severe cases, while milder cases often resolve spontaneously. Preventative measures include promptly washing animal scratches or bites with antiseptic solutions.
In simple words: This code refers to infections caused by Bartonella bacteria that aren't covered by other, more specific codes.Bartonella is usually spread by animal bites, scratches, fleas, or insects.Symptoms can include fever, chills, sweats, body aches, headaches, tiredness, poor appetite, and swollen lymph nodes. These symptoms can be more severe in people with weakened immune systems.
Bartonellosis encompasses a range of infectious diseases caused by bacteria of the genus Bartonella. These bacteria are typically transmitted through the bites or scratches of infected animals, cat fleas, or blood-sucking insects.This code, A44.8, is used when the specific type of bartonellosis does not have its own designated code. Other forms of bartonellosis can manifest with symptoms like fever, chills, sweating, muscle and joint pain, headache, fatigue, loss of appetite, and swollen lymph nodes, particularly in the head, neck, and upper limbs.The severity of these symptoms can be heightened in individuals with compromised immune systems.
Example 1: A patient presents with fever, fatigue, and swollen lymph nodes after being bitten by a stray cat.Blood tests confirm a Bartonella infection, but the specific type is not identified. A44.8 would be used., A patient with a history of recent tick bites develops a persistent fever, headache, and muscle pain.Lab results indicate an unusual strain of Bartonella not captured by other codes.A44.8 is appropriate., An immunocompromised individual presents with severe systemic symptoms, including high fever and chills, after being scratched by an infected rodent. While bartonellosis is confirmed, the particular form is not identifiable by existing specific codes, making A44.8 applicable.
Documentation should include details of animal bites or scratches, exposure to fleas or insects, presenting symptoms, physical exam findings, and laboratory test results confirming the Bartonella infection. The clinical rationale for using A44.8, due to the infection not fitting a more specific category, should also be documented.
- Specialties:Infectious Disease, Internal Medicine, Family Medicine, Pediatrics
- Place of Service:Inpatient Hospital, Outpatient Hospital, Office, Emergency Room - Hospital