A23: Brucellosis

A23 represents Brucellosis, a rare but serious bacterial infection that may be zoonotic or vector-borne. This ICD10 code is vital for documenting and tracking such infections, especially in public health surveillance and outbreak control. Proper identification using this code ensures appropriate treatment and containment strategies, particularly in cases with potential for rapid spread or biosecurity implications.

Symptoms

• Fever – Sudden or recurring with chills
• Fatigue – General weakness and exhaustion
• Swollen lymph nodes – Especially in bacterial infections like plague or tularemia
• Skin lesions – Depending on the pathogen, visible sores or rashes may occur
• Respiratory distress – Particularly in pulmonary forms of anthrax or glanders
• Abdominal pain – May accompany systemic infection
• Muscle aches – Common in leptospirosis or brucellosis

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of Brucellosis involves a detailed clinical history, physical examination, and laboratory testing. Blood cultures, serologic tests, PCR, or tissue biopsies may be required to isolate the causative organism. Rapid identification is essential for prompt treatment and to prevent complications. Travel history, exposure to animals, or occupational risks can offer critical diagnostic clues in zoonotic infections.

ICD10 Code Usage

ICD10 code A23 is used in medical documentation, public health records, and insurance billing to classify rare bacterial infections of zoonotic origin. It allows for standardized reporting across healthcare systems and assists in outbreak management, biosurveillance, and health informatics. Accurate usage is essential for guiding treatment protocols, managing infectious disease risks, and ensuring appropriate reimbursement for care provided.

Related Codes

• A20 – Plague
• A21 – Tularemia
• A22 – Anthrax
• A24 – Glanders and melioidosis
• A25 – Rat-bite fevers
• A26 – Erysipeloid
• A27 – Leptospirosis
• A28 – Other zoonotic bacterial diseases, not elsewhere classified

FAQs

Q1: What is ICD10 code A23?
A: This code refers to Brucellosis, used to classify zoonotic or rare bacterial infections in health records.

Q2: Are these infections contagious?
A: Many are, especially through contact with infected animals or vectors such as fleas or rodents.

Q3: Can Brucellosis be fatal?
A: Yes, without timely treatment, several of these diseases can lead to severe complications or death.

Q4: Is hospitalization required?
A: Often, yes—especially for severe or systemic infections requiring antibiotics and monitoring.

Q5: Who is most at risk?
A: People in agriculture, veterinary fields, or those in contact with wildlife or contaminated water sources.

Conclusion

ICD10 code A23 plays an essential role in documenting and managing cases of Brucellosis. Accurate coding supports timely treatment, outbreak control, and comprehensive public health strategies. Given the zoonotic and potentially serious nature of these infections, awareness and correct use of ICD10 codes are crucial for protecting both individual and community health.