ICD-10 Code A04.3 | Enterohemorrhagic Escherichia coli infection Symptoms, Diagnosis, Billing

Enterohemorrhagic Escherichia coli (EHEC) infection is caused by a specific strain of E. coli that produces Shiga toxin, leading to severe gastrointestinal symptoms, including bloody diarrhea and abdominal cramps. This condition is clinically significant due to its potential to cause hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS), a serious complication. The ICD-10 Code A04.3 facilitates accurate diagnosis, documentation, medical billing, and public health reporting, ensuring appropriate management and tracking of outbreaks.

What is ICD-10 Code A04.3 for Enterohemorrhagic Escherichia coli infection?

ICD-10 Code A04.3 represents Enterohemorrhagic Escherichia coli infection, a gastrointestinal illness caused by E. coli strains that produce Shiga toxin. This code is used in clinical documentation and billing when patients present with symptoms such as severe abdominal pain and bloody diarrhea, indicating the need for targeted treatment and monitoring.

ICD-10 Code A04.3 – Clinical Definition and Explanation of Enterohemorrhagic Escherichia coli infection

Enterohemorrhagic Escherichia coli infection is primarily caused by ingestion of contaminated food or water, particularly undercooked beef or unpasteurized dairy products. The condition can progress rapidly, leading to severe complications such as hemolytic uremic syndrome, necessitating immediate medical attention.

Key Clinical Features:

• Severe abdominal cramps and pain
• Bloody diarrhea, often with mucus
• Nausea and vomiting
• Potential development of hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS)

ICD-10 Code A04.3 for Enterohemorrhagic Escherichia coli infection – SOAP Notes & Clinical Use

ICD-10 Code A04.3 is utilized in SOAP notes to document the patient's symptoms, assessment findings, and treatment plan. It is relevant in both acute and chronic care settings, ensuring comprehensive documentation of the patient's condition and facilitating appropriate billing.

What Does ICD-10 Code A04.3 for Enterohemorrhagic Escherichia coli infection Mean in SOAP Notes?

In SOAP notes, ICD-10 Code A04.3 connects subjective patient-reported symptoms and objective clinical findings to a formal diagnosis of Enterohemorrhagic Escherichia coli infection. This ensures continuity of care, supports accurate billing, and meets EHR documentation standards.

Treatment Options for ICD-10 Code A04.3 – Enterohemorrhagic Escherichia coli infection

Enterohemorrhagic Escherichia coli infection requires prompt medical intervention, often necessitating hospitalization due to the risk of severe complications.

Antibiotic Therapy:

• First-line: Supportive care is preferred; antibiotics are generally avoided due to the risk of HUS.
• Alternative: In severe cases, azithromycin may be considered.

Supportive Care:

• Hydration therapy to prevent dehydration.
• Monitoring of renal function and electrolytes.
• Nutritional support as needed.

Infection Control:

• Strict hand hygiene practices.
• Isolation precautions in healthcare settings during outbreaks.
• Education on food safety and proper cooking techniques.

How to Document Symptoms of Enterohemorrhagic Escherichia coli infection (ICD-10 A04.3) in SOAP Notes

Subjective:

• Patient reports severe abdominal pain and cramping.
• Patient describes diarrhea that is bloody and frequent.
• Nausea and occasional vomiting noted by the patient.

Objective:

• Vital signs: Elevated heart rate, low blood pressure.
• Abdominal examination reveals tenderness and guarding.
• Stool sample positive for Shiga toxin-producing E. coli.

Secure, compliant, and built for trust

HIPAA-compliant and designed with privacy in mind, your patient’s data is protected. Focus on care while we safeguard your information.

Learn more

SOAP Note Guidelines for Diagnosing Enterohemorrhagic Escherichia coli infection (ICD-10 Code A04.3)

Assessment:

• Diagnosis: Enterohemorrhagic Escherichia coli infection, moderate severity.
• ICD-10 Code: A04.3.
• Common triggers: Consumption of undercooked beef or contaminated food.

Plan:

• Initiate hydration therapy and monitor renal function.
• Educate the patient on dietary restrictions and hygiene practices.
• Schedule follow-up to assess recovery and renal status.

Treatment & Plan Section for ICD-10 Code A04.3 – Enterohemorrhagic Escherichia coli infection

• Hydration therapy to maintain fluid balance.
• Avoidance of antibiotics unless specifically indicated.
• Monitoring for signs of hemolytic uremic syndrome.
• Patient education on food safety and hygiene.

Using ICD-10 Code A04.3 for Enterohemorrhagic Escherichia coli infection in Billing & SOAP Note Compliance

• Ensure accurate documentation of symptoms and clinical findings.
• Use A04.3 in appropriate clinical settings, such as emergency departments.
• Align treatment plans with clinical guidelines to support billing.
• Document any complications or additional diagnoses clearly.

Related ICD-10 Codes Often Used with Enterohemorrhagic Escherichia coli infection

• A04.0 – Enterotoxigenic Escherichia coli infection
• A04.1 – Enteroinvasive Escherichia coli infection
• A04.2 – Other specified bacterial intestinal infections

ICD-10 Code A04.3 in Medical Billing and Insurance for Enterohemorrhagic Escherichia coli infection

ICD-10 Code A04.3 is critical in medical billing, particularly in hospital, emergency room, or infectious disease care settings.

Billing Notes:

• Document all relevant symptoms and clinical findings to support the claim.
• Use A04.3 in settings where patients present with gastrointestinal symptoms.
• Ensure compliance with documentation standards for accurate billing.

Common CPT Pairings: