ICD-11 Codes
for 1A03.1 - Enterotoxigenic Escherichia coli infection

Teodor Jurukovski January 1, 1970

Fact checked by: Teodor Jurukovski

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Understanding Enterotoxigenic Escherichia coli Infection (1A03.1)

Enterotoxigenic Escherichia coli infection, identified by the ICD-11 code 1A03.1, is a gastrointestinal condition caused by specific strains of the gram-negative bacterium Escherichia coli. This infection is characterised by the release of toxins from the bacteria, leading to acute, watery diarrhoea. Transmission typically occurs via the faecal-oral route, often through the ingestion of contaminated food or water. Confirmation of the diagnosis involves identifying enterotoxigenic E. coli (ETEC) in a stool sample.

Recognising the Signs of ETEC Infection

The primary symptom of enterotoxigenic E. coli infection is acute, watery diarrhoea, which may be accompanied by stomach cramps and, in some individuals, nausea or vomiting. While some people may experience a low-grade fever or weakness, the condition is often self-limiting. Symptoms can manifest as early as 10 hours after exposure or may take up to 72 hours to appear, typically lasting less than five days, though some cases may persist longer. It is also possible to be infected with ETEC and exhibit no symptoms.

How Enterotoxigenic E. coli Infection Develops

Enterotoxigenic E. coli (ETEC) infection arises from ingesting E. coli bacteria that produce specific toxins. The bacteria are commonly spread through food or water contaminated with faeces. This contamination can occur if individuals do not wash their hands properly when preparing food or beverages, or if crops are irrigated with contaminated water. ETEC is a frequent cause of traveller's diarrhoea, particularly in developing countries, and can affect individuals of any age. Risk factors include consuming:

• Undercooked meat
• Raw fruits and vegetables that have not been thoroughly washed
• Unpasteurised milk, cider, or juice
• Food from street vendors
• Untreated water, including ice, in areas with inadequate chlorination.

Practising good hand hygiene after using the bathroom and before food preparation is crucial for prevention.

Diagnosing ETEC Infection

The definitive diagnosis for enterotoxigenic E. coli infection (ICD-11 code 1A03.1) is established through the identification of enterotoxigenic E. coli (ETEC) in a faecal sample. While ETEC can be challenging to detect in stool samples, laboratory testing is essential. In cases where antibiotic treatment is considered, specific testing is performed to determine which antibiotics are effective against the particular strain of ETEC involved.

Managing Enterotoxigenic E. coli Infection

For individuals diagnosed with enterotoxigenic E. coli infection, the primary management strategy focuses on supportive care, particularly ensuring adequate fluid intake to prevent dehydration. Most cases resolve with this approach alone and do not require specific medical treatment. Dehydration can lead to serious complications and may necessitate hospitalisation. If antibiotic therapy is deemed necessary, it should be guided by laboratory testing to ensure effectiveness against the specific ETEC strain. Individuals working in food handling, patient care, or childcare roles should remain home while symptomatic and for 24 hours after diarrhoea subsides, potentially requiring clearance from a local health department before returning to work.

Alternative Names for ETEC Infection

Enterotoxigenic Escherichia coli infection is also known by several other clinical and patient-friendly terms. These include:

• ETEC infection
• Enterotoxic Escherichia coli infection
• Enteritis due to enterotoxigenic E. coli
• Colitis due to enterotoxigenic E. coli
• Traveller's diarrhoea (when caused by ETEC)

The ICD-11 code 1A03.1 specifically refers to this distinct type of E. coli infection.

Advising Medical Consultation for ETEC

While many cases of enterotoxigenic E. coli infection are self-limiting, it is advisable to seek medical attention if diarrhoea persists for more than three days. Individuals experiencing severe symptoms, such as an inability to keep fluids down, frequent vomiting, or significant weakness, should seek immediate medical care. Although bloody diarrhoea is less common with ETEC compared to other E. coli strains, any severe symptoms warrant prompt evaluation. Individuals working in sensitive occupations like food handling or childcare should follow specific return-to-work guidelines after symptom resolution.