ICD-11 Codes
for 1A07 - Typhoid fever

Teodor Jurukovski January 1, 1970

Fact checked by: Teodor Jurukovski

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Understanding Typhoid Fever

Typhoid fever is a serious systemic illness caused by the bacterium Salmonella Typhi (S. Typhi). It is characterised by sustained fever and can affect the intestines. This condition is also known as enteric fever and is clinically similar to paratyphoid fever, which is caused by Salmonella Paratyphi.

What Causes Typhoid Fever and Who is at Risk?

The primary cause of typhoid fever is infection with the S. Typhi bacterium, which resides in the intestines of infected individuals and can contaminate food and water sources. Transmission typically occurs through the ingestion of contaminated food or water, often due to poor hygiene practices, such as inadequate handwashing after using the toilet or handling food. Individuals living in or travelling to areas with inadequate sanitation, particularly in South and Southeast Asia, Central and South America, and Africa, are at higher risk. Travellers to Pakistan, India, or Bangladesh face increased risk.

Recognising the Symptoms of Typhoid Fever

Typhoid fever often begins with a fever that gradually increases over several days, sometimes referred to as a "stepwise" fever. Other common symptoms include:

• Headache
• Chills
• Loss of appetite
• Abdominal pain
• A characteristic rash known as "rose spots," which are faint pink spots typically appearing on the chest or abdomen
• Cough
• Muscle aches
• Nausea and vomiting
• Constipation or diarrhoea

Diagnosing Typhoid Fever

Diagnosis of typhoid fever relies on a combination of clinical symptoms, a detailed travel history, and laboratory tests. Healthcare providers will conduct a physical examination and may order tests on samples of blood, stool, urine, or bone marrow to detect the presence of S. Typhi. Informing your healthcare provider about recent travel or potential exposure is crucial for accurate diagnosis.

Managing Typhoid Fever

Treatment for typhoid fever primarily involves antibiotics. However, antibiotic resistance is a growing concern, meaning some strains of S. Typhi may not respond to previously effective medications. Treatment regimens are tailored based on the specific strain of the bacteria and the geographic origin of the infection. In severe cases or when complications arise, hospitalisation and additional treatments may be necessary.

Alternative Names for Typhoid Fever

Typhoid fever is also referred to by several other terms, including enteric fever, ileotyphus, infection by Salmonella typhi, and typhoid infection. When unspecified, it may be coded as typhoid fever, unspecified.

ICD-11 Coding for Typhoid Fever

The official ICD-11 code for Typhoid fever is 1A07. Specific variations may be documented, such as Typhoid peritonitis (1A07.0), Other specified typhoid fever (1A07.Y), and Typhoid fever, unspecified (1A07.Z). Accurate documentation is essential for correct medical coding and billing purposes. This ICD-11 code is used for reporting and statistical analysis of this infectious disease.