2025 ICD-10-CM code A87.2
Lymphocytic choriomeningitis (LCM) is a viral infection affecting the nervous system. It is caused by the lymphocytic choriomeningitis virus (LCMV).
Medical necessity is established by the presence of clinical signs and symptoms consistent with LCM and confirmed through laboratory testing. Medical necessity also supports the appropriate level of care, ranging from outpatient management to hospitalization depending on the severity of the infection and the presence of complications.
Clinicians should consider the two-phase nature of LCM. Initial flu-like symptoms may progress to meningoencephalitis. Diagnosis is based on laboratory testing of blood, serum, and CSF. Treatment ranges from managing symptoms to hospitalization and supportive care based on severity. Clinicians may administer corticosteroids for symptom alleviation and provide supportive therapy as needed.
- Certain infectious and parasitic diseases
- Viral and prion infections of the central nervous system (A80-A89)
In simple words: Lymphocytic choriomeningitis (LCM) is a viral disease spread by mice. It can cause flu-like symptoms or more serious problems like meningitis (brain swelling). Treatment depends on how serious it is.
Lymphocytic choriomeningitis is a rodent-borne viral infectious disease caused by the lymphocytic choriomeningitis virus (LCMV). It primarily affects the nervous system.The infection can manifest in two phases. Initially, patients may present with flu-like symptoms such as fever, fatigue, loss of appetite, headache, nausea, vomiting, and muscle aches. This phase typically lasts for about a week.A second phase, characterized by meningoencephalitis, may follow after a period of apparent recovery. Symptoms of meningitis, such as fever, headache, and neck stiffness, along with encephalitis symptoms like confusion, drowsiness, and sensory and motor abnormalities can manifest. Acute hydrocephalus may also be a complication. Diagnosis is typically confirmed through laboratory tests on blood, serum, and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). Treatment varies depending on the severity of the disease, from symptomatic relief with anti-inflammatory drugs like corticosteroids to hospitalization and supportive therapy in severe cases.
Example 1: A patient presents with fever, headache, muscle aches, and fatigue. After a week, symptoms subside, but the patient returns a few days later with a stiff neck, confusion, and sensitivity to light. Laboratory tests of CSF confirm LCM., A child develops a mild fever and headache after playing in an area with evidence of rodent activity. Symptoms resolve without treatment, and LCM is not initially suspected. However, weeks later, the child experiences recurring headaches, difficulty concentrating, and mild motor weakness, prompting further investigation and a diagnosis of LCM., An adult experiences sudden onset of high fever, severe headache, and neck stiffness. They are admitted to the hospital, and LCM is diagnosed through CSF analysis. The patient requires supportive care, including intravenous fluids and pain management, to manage symptoms and prevent complications.
Documentation should include signs and symptoms, history of exposure to rodents, laboratory results (blood, serum, and CSF analysis), and treatment provided.
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- Specialties:Infectious Disease, Neurology
- Place of Service:Inpatient Hospital, Office