ICD-10 Code A20.1 | Cellulocutaneous plague Symptoms, Diagnosis, Billing

Cellulocutaneous plague is a severe infectious disease caused by the bacterium Yersinia pestis, primarily transmitted through flea bites or contact with infected animals. This condition manifests as a localized skin infection characterized by swelling, redness, and pain, often accompanied by systemic symptoms such as fever and malaise. Accurate coding with ICD-10 Code A20.1 is essential for proper diagnosis, documentation, medical billing, and public health reporting, ensuring that healthcare providers can effectively manage and track this potentially life-threatening condition.

What is ICD-10 Code A20.1 for Cellulocutaneous plague?

ICD-10 Code A20.1 specifically represents Cellulocutaneous plague, a localized form of plague that affects the skin and subcutaneous tissues. This code should be used when documenting cases of cellulitis associated with Yersinia pestis infection, particularly when there are signs of localized inflammation and systemic symptoms. Proper use of this code in clinical documentation and billing is crucial for accurate patient care and epidemiological tracking.

ICD-10 Code A20.1 – Clinical Definition and Explanation of Cellulocutaneous plague

Cellulocutaneous plague is caused by Yersinia pestis, leading to localized skin infections that can progress rapidly if untreated. The condition requires immediate medical attention due to its potential for severe complications and systemic spread. Early recognition and treatment are critical to prevent morbidity and mortality.

Key Clinical Features:

• Localized swelling and erythema at the infection site
• Fever and chills
• Pain and tenderness in affected areas
• Possible lymphadenopathy

ICD-10 Code A20.1 for Cellulocutaneous plague – SOAP Notes & Clinical Use

In SOAP notes, ICD-10 Code A20.1 is utilized to document the presence of cellulocutaneous plague, aiding in the assessment of symptoms, clinical findings, and treatment plans. This code is relevant in both acute and chronic care settings, ensuring comprehensive patient management.

What Does ICD-10 Code A20.1 for Cellulocutaneous plague Mean in SOAP Notes?

ICD-10 Code A20.1 connects subjective patient-reported symptoms and objective clinical findings to a formal diagnosis of cellulocutaneous plague. This linkage is vital for ensuring continuity of care, supporting accurate billing, and meeting EHR documentation standards.

Treatment Options for ICD-10 Code A20.1 – Cellulocutaneous plague

Cellulocutaneous plague necessitates prompt treatment to prevent complications. Hospitalization may be required for severe cases, and appropriate antibiotic therapy is critical.

Antibiotic Therapy:

• Streptomycin (first-line, 7-14 days)
• Gentamicin (alternative, 7-14 days)
• Doxycycline (alternative, 7-14 days)
• Ciprofloxacin (alternative, 7-14 days)

Supportive Care:

• Pain management with analgesics
• Hydration and electrolyte balance
• Monitoring for systemic complications
• Wound care and hygiene

Infection Control:

• Implement standard precautions
• Isolate infected patients if necessary
• Educate staff on plague transmission
• Monitor for outbreaks in endemic areas

How to Document Symptoms of Cellulocutaneous plague (ICD-10 A20.1) in SOAP Notes

Subjective:

• Patient reports localized pain and swelling
• Fever of 101°F for the past two days
• History of exposure to infected animals
• Complaints of malaise and fatigue

Objective:

• Erythema and swelling noted on examination
• Temperature 101°F, heart rate 110 bpm
• Tenderness on palpation of the affected area
• Lymphadenopathy observed in the groin region

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 Cellulocutaneous plague (ICD-10 Code A20.1)

Assessment:

• Diagnosis: Cellulocutaneous plague, moderate severity
• ICD-10 Code: A20.1
• Contributing factors: Recent travel to endemic area
• Possible exposure to infected fleas or animals

Plan:

• Initiate antibiotic therapy with streptomycin
• Educate patient on signs of systemic infection
• Schedule follow-up in 48 hours to reassess
• Monitor vital signs and laboratory results

Treatment & Plan Section for ICD-10 Code A20.1 – Cellulocutaneous plague

• First-line treatment with streptomycin or gentamicin
• Consider doxycycline for patients with allergies
• Implement wound care protocols to prevent infection
• Regular monitoring of symptoms and vital signs

Using ICD-10 Code A20.1 for Cellulocutaneous plague in Billing & SOAP Note Compliance

• Ensure accurate documentation of symptoms and history
• Use A20.1 in conjunction with relevant CPT codes
• Document treatment plans that align with clinical guidelines
• Maintain compliance with coding standards for billing

Related ICD-10 Codes Often Used with Cellulocutaneous plague

• A20.0 – Bubonic plague
• A20.9 – Plague, unspecified
• A21.0 – Septicemic plague
• A22.0 – Tularemia

ICD-10 Code A20.1 in Medical Billing and Insurance for Cellulocutaneous plague

ICD-10 Code A20.1 is critical in billing for hospital, ER, or infectious disease care, ensuring accurate reimbursement and tracking of plague cases.

Billing Notes:

• Document all relevant patient history and symptoms
• Use A20.1 in appropriate clinical settings for billing
• Ensure compliance with payer requirements for coding
• Include detailed treatment plans in documentation

Common CPT Pairings: