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Understanding Intestinal Infection due to other Vibrio - ICD-11 Code 1A01
Intestinal infection due to other Vibrio is a bacterial gastrointestinal illness caused by non-cholera Vibrio species. Vibrio bacteria are naturally present in coastal and brackish waters and proliferate in warmer temperatures. Infection in humans is referred to as vibriosis and is classified under ICD-11 code 1A01.
The condition primarily affects the intestines, leading to acute diarrhoeal illness, but certain species may also cause severe systemic or wound-related infections in vulnerable individuals.
Causes and Risk Factors for Vibrio Infections
Human infection occurs when Vibrio bacteria enter the body through ingestion or direct exposure. The gastrointestinal tract is affected when contaminated food is consumed, while skin or soft tissue infection may occur when bacteria enter through broken skin.
Certain individuals are at increased risk of severe disease due to impaired immune defenses or underlying conditions that reduce the body’s ability to control bacterial spread.
Recognising the Symptoms of Vibriosis
Intestinal infection due to Vibrio typically presents as an acute gastrointestinal illness. Symptoms usually begin within 24 hours of exposure and may range from mild to severe.
Severe infection, particularly due to Vibrio vulnificus, may lead to bloodstream infection. This can cause low blood pressure, sepsis, and characteristic blistering skin lesions. Prompt medical attention is critical in these cases.
Diagnosing Vibrio Intestinal Infections
Diagnosis is confirmed through laboratory testing. Stool cultures are used to identify Vibrio species in cases of diarrhoeal illness. Blood cultures or wound cultures may be required if systemic or soft tissue infection is suspected.
Accurate diagnosis relies on clinical suspicion. Patients should inform healthcare providers about recent seafood consumption or exposure to coastal waters, as this history guides appropriate laboratory testing.
Management and Treatment Considerations
Treatment depends on the severity of illness. The primary concern in intestinal infection is preventing dehydration, which can occur rapidly due to fluid loss from diarrhoea.
Antibiotics are not routinely required for mild cases, as most intestinal infections are self-limiting. However, early treatment is essential for high-risk patients to reduce morbidity and mortality.
Alternative Terms and Coding
When documenting or coding, intestinal infection due to other Vibrio is classified under ICD-11 code 1A01 and is included within the broader category of bacterial intestinal infections.
Are Intestinal Infection due to other Vibrio ICD codes billable?
Yes, ICD-11 code 1A01 is a valid and billable diagnostic code when used in clinical documentation. It should be applied when laboratory or clinical evidence supports an intestinal infection caused by non-cholera Vibrio species. Accurate coding ensures appropriate clinical communication, epidemiological tracking, and reimbursement where applicable.
