Enteropathogenic Escherichia coli (EPEC) infection is a significant cause of diarrhea, particularly in infants and young children. It is characterized by the presence of EPEC strains that adhere to intestinal epithelial cells, leading to inflammation and gastrointestinal symptoms. Accurate coding with ICD-10 Code A04.0 is essential for proper diagnosis, documentation, medical billing, and public health reporting, ensuring that healthcare providers can track and manage this infectious disease effectively.
What is ICD-10 Code A04.0 for Enteropathogenic Escherichia coli infection?
ICD-10 Code A04.0 specifically denotes Enteropathogenic Escherichia coli infection, which is associated with diarrhea and gastrointestinal distress primarily in children. This code should be utilized in clinical documentation and billing when a patient presents with symptoms indicative of EPEC infection, ensuring accurate representation of the condition for treatment and reimbursement purposes.
ICD-10 Code A04.0 – Clinical Definition and Explanation of Enteropathogenic Escherichia coli infection
Enteropathogenic Escherichia coli infection is caused by specific strains of E. coli that adhere to the intestinal lining, leading to diarrhea and abdominal cramps. The condition can progress rapidly, especially in vulnerable populations such as infants, necessitating prompt medical attention.
Key Clinical Features:
- Watery diarrhea, often with mucus
- Abdominal cramps and pain
- Nausea and vomiting
- Fever may be present in some cases
ICD-10 Code A04.0 for Enteropathogenic Escherichia coli infection – SOAP Notes & Clinical Use
ICD-10 Code A04.0 is utilized in SOAP notes to document the patient's symptoms, assessment findings, and treatment plans related to Enteropathogenic Escherichia coli infection. This code is relevant in both acute and chronic care settings, facilitating comprehensive patient management.
What Does ICD-10 Code A04.0 for Enteropathogenic Escherichia coli infection Mean in SOAP Notes?
In SOAP notes, ICD-10 Code A04.0 connects subjective patient-reported symptoms and objective clinical findings to a formal diagnosis of Enteropathogenic Escherichia coli infection. This ensures continuity of care, supports accurate billing, and meets EHR documentation standards.
Treatment Options for ICD-10 Code A04.0 – Enteropathogenic Escherichia coli infection
Prompt treatment of Enteropathogenic Escherichia coli infection is crucial to prevent dehydration and complications. Hospitalization may be necessary in severe cases.
Antibiotic Therapy:
- Ciprofloxacin: 500 mg orally twice daily for 3-7 days
- Azithromycin: 500 mg orally once daily for 3 days
- Alternative: Trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole for 3-7 days
Supportive Care:
- Oral rehydration solutions to prevent dehydration
- Intravenous fluids for severe cases
- Antipyretics for fever management
Infection Control:
- Strict hand hygiene practices
- Isolation of infected patients during outbreaks
- Education on food safety and hygiene
How to Document Symptoms of Enteropathogenic Escherichia coli infection (ICD-10 A04.0) in SOAP Notes
Subjective:
- Patient reports watery diarrhea for 2 days
- Complains of abdominal cramps and nausea
- History of recent travel to an area with poor sanitation
- No significant past medical history noted
Objective:
- Vital signs: Temperature 101°F, HR 90 bpm, BP 110/70 mmHg
- Abdominal exam: Tenderness in the lower quadrants
- Stool sample: Positive for E. coli
- Dehydration signs: Dry mucous membranes
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SOAP Note Guidelines for Diagnosing Enteropathogenic Escherichia coli infection (ICD-10 Code A04.0)
Assessment:
- Diagnosis: Enteropathogenic Escherichia coli infection, moderate severity
- ICD-10 Code: A04.0
- Contributing factors: Recent travel to endemic area, potential exposure to contaminated food
- Monitor for signs of dehydration
Plan:
- Initiate oral rehydration therapy
- Consider antibiotic therapy based on severity
- Educate patient on hygiene practices to prevent spread
- Schedule follow-up in 48 hours to reassess hydration status
Treatment & Plan Section for ICD-10 Code A04.0 – Enteropathogenic Escherichia coli infection
- First-line antibiotic therapy as indicated based on severity
- Oral rehydration solutions for mild to moderate dehydration
- Education on hygiene and food safety practices
- Follow-up appointments to monitor recovery and hydration status
Using ICD-10 Code A04.0 for Enteropathogenic Escherichia coli infection in Billing & SOAP Note Compliance
- Ensure accurate documentation of symptoms and clinical findings under Subjective (S) and Objective (O)
- Use A04.0 for all cases of confirmed EPEC infection to support billing
- Align treatment plans with clinical guidelines to justify billing
- Document any complications or additional diagnoses that may require subcoding
Related ICD-10 Codes Often Used with Enteropathogenic Escherichia coli infection
- A04.1 – Enterotoxigenic Escherichia coli infection
- A04.2 – Enteroinvasive Escherichia coli infection
- A04.3 – Enterohemorrhagic Escherichia coli infection
- A04.9 – Other specified bacterial intestinal infections
ICD-10 Code A04.0 in Medical Billing and Insurance for Enteropathogenic Escherichia coli infection
ICD-10 Code A04.0 is critical in medical billing, particularly in hospital, emergency room, or infectious disease care settings.
Billing Notes:
- Document all relevant clinical findings to support the use of A04.0 in claims.
- Ensure that the diagnosis is clearly linked to the patient's presenting symptoms.
- Use A04.0 in conjunction with other codes for any complications or related conditions.
- Review payer-specific guidelines for documentation requirements.
Common CPT Pairings:
| CPT Code | Description |
|---|---|
| 99213 | Established patient office visit, low complexity |
| 87529 | Infectious agent detection by nucleic acid (e.g., PCR) for E. coli |
| 96360 | Intravenous infusion, hydration, initial 31 minutes |
Frequently Asked Questions
Common Questions About Using ICD-10 Code A04.0 for Enteropathogenic Escherichia coli infection
What are the common symptoms of Enteropathogenic Escherichia coli infection?
Common symptoms include watery diarrhea, abdominal cramps, nausea, and sometimes fever. Symptoms typically appear within a few days after exposure to the bacteria.
How is Enteropathogenic Escherichia coli infection diagnosed?
Diagnosis is made through stool culture or PCR testing to identify the presence of E. coli. Clinical history and symptom presentation also play a crucial role.
What is the recommended treatment for Enteropathogenic Escherichia coli infection?
Treatment primarily involves rehydration, either orally or intravenously, and may include antibiotics in severe cases. Supportive care is essential to manage symptoms.
Is Enteropathogenic Escherichia coli infection contagious?
Yes, EPEC infection can spread through contaminated food and water, as well as through person-to-person contact, especially in settings with poor hygiene.
