2025 ICD-10-CM code B05.0
Measles complicated by encephalitis.
The medical necessity of treating measles encephalitis stems from the potential for serious and long-term neurological consequences.Prompt diagnosis and supportive care are essential to minimize morbidity and mortality.Vaccination remains the most effective way to prevent measles and its complications.
Clinicians diagnosing B05.0 should document the following: 1. Confirmation of measles infection (e.g., positive laboratory test, characteristic clinical findings). 2. Evidence of encephalitis (e.g., neurological symptoms, imaging studies, EEG). 3. Clear linkage between the measles infection and the development of encephalitis.It's also essential to assess and document the severity of the encephalitis and any other complications. Additional codes may be necessary to fully capture the patient's clinical picture (e.g., codes for seizures, neurological deficits).
In simple words: This code indicates that someone has measles and it has caused swelling and/or inflammation in their brain (encephalitis).
Measles with complication of encephalitis.This code indicates that a patient has measles (rubeola) and has developed encephalitis as a direct result of the measles infection.Measles is a highly contagious viral infection characterized by fever, cough, runny nose, conjunctivitis, and a characteristic rash. Encephalitis is inflammation of the brain that can cause confusion, seizures, and other neurological symptoms.
Example 1: A 5-year-old child presents with fever, cough, runny nose, and a rash that started on the face and spread downwards.Laboratory testing confirms measles infection.A few days later, the child develops seizures and altered mental status.An MRI reveals brain inflammation, confirming the diagnosis of measles encephalitis., A young adult who is unvaccinated against measles develops classic measles symptoms.Several weeks later, after the rash has resolved, the individual experiences persistent headaches, confusion, and difficulty concentrating. Neurological examination and imaging studies reveal encephalitis, likely as a delayed complication of the measles infection., An infant with measles develops high fever, irritability, and bulging fontanelle.Lumbar puncture reveals abnormalities in the cerebrospinal fluid consistent with encephalitis.
Documentation should clearly demonstrate the presence of both measles and encephalitis and establish a causal link between the two.This should include clinical findings (fever, rash, cough, neurological symptoms), laboratory results confirming measles infection, and imaging or other diagnostic studies supporting the diagnosis of encephalitis.
- Specialties:Infectious Disease, Pediatrics, Neurology
- Place of Service:Inpatient Hospital, Office