ICD-10 Code B74.9 | Filariasis, unspecified Symptoms, Diagnosis, Billing

Filariasis, unspecified is a parasitic infection caused by filarial worms, primarily transmitted through mosquito bites. It can lead to significant morbidity, including lymphedema and hydrocele. Accurate coding with ICD-10 Code B74.9 is essential for proper diagnosis, documentation, medical billing, and public health reporting, ensuring that healthcare providers can track and manage this condition effectively.

What is ICD-10 Code B74.9 for Filariasis, unspecified?

ICD-10 Code B74.9 represents Filariasis, unspecified, a condition characterized by infection with filarial parasites. This code is used when the specific type of filariasis is not identified. It is crucial for clinical documentation and billing when patients present with symptoms of filariasis but lack a definitive diagnosis of the specific filarial species.

ICD-10 Code B74.9 – Clinical Definition and Explanation of Filariasis, unspecified

Filariasis, unspecified is caused by various species of filarial worms, primarily Wuchereria bancrofti, Brugia malayi, and Brugia timori. The disease progresses through stages, often leading to chronic complications that necessitate medical intervention. Early diagnosis and treatment are vital to prevent severe outcomes.

Key Clinical Features:

• Lymphedema, particularly of the limbs and genitals.
• Hydrocele formation in males.
• Fever and lymphangitis during acute episodes.
• Skin changes, including thickening and discoloration.

ICD-10 Code B74.9 for Filariasis, unspecified – SOAP Notes & Clinical Use

ICD-10 Code B74.9 is utilized in SOAP notes to document the presence of filariasis symptoms, guiding assessment and treatment plans. It is relevant in both acute and chronic care settings, ensuring comprehensive patient management and accurate billing.

What Does ICD-10 Code B74.9 for Filariasis, unspecified Mean in SOAP Notes?

In SOAP notes, ICD-10 Code B74.9 connects subjective patient reports and objective clinical findings to a formal diagnosis of filariasis, unspecified. This code supports continuity of care, facilitates billing processes, and meets EHR documentation standards.

Treatment Options for ICD-10 Code B74.9 – Filariasis, unspecified

Filariasis, unspecified may require hospitalization for severe cases, particularly when complications arise. Treatment focuses on managing symptoms and preventing further complications.

Antibiotic Therapy:

• Diethylcarbamazine (DEC) for 12 days.
• Ivermectin as an alternative in certain cases.
• Albendazole may be used in combination therapy.

Supportive Care:

• Elevation and compression for lymphedema management.
• Surgical intervention for hydrocele if indicated.
• Pain management and wound care for secondary infections.

Infection Control:

• Vector control measures to prevent mosquito bites.
• Education on personal protective measures.
• Monitoring and treatment of affected populations during outbreaks.

How to Document Symptoms of Filariasis, unspecified (ICD-10 B74.9) in SOAP Notes

Subjective:

• Patient reports swelling in the legs and groin area.
• History of recent travel to endemic regions.
• Complaints of intermittent fever and fatigue.
• Notable changes in skin texture over affected areas.

Objective:

• Physical examination reveals bilateral leg swelling.
• Presence of hydrocele on examination.
• Vital signs: temperature 101°F, pulse 88 bpm.
• Skin examination shows thickened and discolored areas.

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SOAP Note Guidelines for Diagnosing Filariasis, unspecified (ICD-10 Code B74.9)

Assessment:

• Diagnosis: Filariasis, unspecified, moderate severity.
• ICD-10 Code: B74.9.
• Contributing factors: Recent travel to endemic areas.
• Symptoms consistent with chronic filariasis.

Plan:

• Initiate treatment with Diethylcarbamazine (DEC).
• Educate patient on lymphedema management techniques.
• Schedule follow-up in 4 weeks to assess treatment response.
• Consider referral to a specialist for surgical evaluation if hydrocele persists.

Treatment & Plan Section for ICD-10 Code B74.9 – Filariasis, unspecified

• First-line pharmacologic treatment includes Diethylcarbamazine (DEC).
• Non-pharmacologic strategies involve patient education on lymphedema care.
• Monitoring includes regular follow-up visits to assess symptom progression.
• Consideration of surgical options for severe complications like hydrocele.

Using ICD-10 Code B74.9 for Filariasis, unspecified in Billing & SOAP Note Compliance

• Ensure clear documentation of symptoms and history in Subjective (S) and Objective (O) sections.
• Use the code in appropriate clinical settings, including outpatient and inpatient care.
• Align treatment plans with clinical guidelines to support justified billing.
• Document any relevant CPT codes that correspond with the diagnosis.

Related ICD-10 Codes Often Used with Filariasis, unspecified

• B74.0 – Lymphatic filariasis due to Wuchereria bancrofti
• B74.1 – Lymphatic filariasis due to Brugia malayi
• B74.2 – Lymphatic filariasis due to Brugia timori
• B74.8 – Other filariasis

ICD-10 Code B74.9 in Medical Billing and Insurance for Filariasis, unspecified

ICD-10 Code B74.9 is critical in billing for hospital, ER, or infectious disease care related to filariasis, unspecified.

Billing Notes:

• Document all relevant patient history and symptoms to support the diagnosis.
• Use the code in settings where filariasis is suspected or confirmed.
• Ensure that all chart elements align with the diagnosis for accurate claims.
• Review coding guidelines to avoid common billing errors.

Common CPT Pairings: