2025 ICD-10-CM code A36.2
Laryngeal diphtheria.An infection of the larynx caused by the bacterium Corynebacterium diphtheriae.
Medical necessity for the treatment of laryngeal diphtheria is established by the diagnosis itself, confirmed by clinical findings and laboratory testing. The potentially life-threatening nature of the condition, particularly due to airway obstruction, necessitates prompt and aggressive treatment with antitoxin and antibiotics.
Physicians diagnose laryngeal diphtheria based on symptoms, exposure history, and physical examination.Laboratory tests, such as microscopic analysis of a throat swab, can confirm the diagnosis. Treatment involves the immediate administration of diphtheria antitoxin and antibiotics. Isolation is usually necessary for about 48 hours after starting antibiotics. Patient education for prevention through vaccination (DTaP, Tdap, DT, and Td) is also crucial.
In simple words: Laryngeal diphtheria is an infection in your throat caused by bacteria. It can make it hard to breathe and swallow.It's important to get treatment right away.
Laryngeal diphtheria is an infection that affects the larynx (the voice box).It is caused by the bacterium Corynebacterium diphtheriae.This infection can occur as a primary infection or as an extension of pharyngeal or nasopharyngeal diphtheria. Symptoms can include a sore throat, barking cough, difficulty breathing and swallowing, fever, hoarseness, and swollen neck glands. In severe cases, airway obstruction, respiratory failure, coma, or even death may occur.
Example 1: A 3-year-old child presents with a barking cough, hoarseness, difficulty breathing, and a low-grade fever. Upon examination, a grayish membrane is observed in the throat. A throat culture confirms the presence of Corynebacterium diphtheriae., A 5-year-old unvaccinated child presents with a sore throat, fever, and difficulty swallowing.The child's voice is hoarse, and a barking cough develops.Examination reveals swelling in the neck and a pseudomembrane in the throat.Laryngeal diphtheria is diagnosed., An adult with a history of incomplete diphtheria vaccination develops a sore throat, fever, and a cough. Over the next few days, the cough worsens, becoming barking in nature, and the patient experiences increasing difficulty breathing. Laryngeal diphtheria is suspected, and a throat culture is performed to confirm the diagnosis.
Documentation should include signs and symptoms, such as sore throat, barking cough, difficulty breathing or swallowing, fever, hoarseness, and swollen neck glands. Physical examination findings, including the presence of a pseudomembrane, should be noted. Laboratory results confirming the presence of Corynebacterium diphtheriae are essential.History of exposure to diphtheria and vaccination status should also be documented.
- Specialties:Infectious Disease, Pediatrics, Otolaryngology
- Place of Service:Inpatient Hospital, Emergency Room - Hospital, Office, Telehealth Provided in Patient’s Home, Telehealth Provided Other than in Patient’s Home