ICD-11 Codes
for CA01 - Acute sinusitis

Teodor Jurukovski January 1, 1970

Fact checked by: Teodor Jurukovski

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Understanding Acute Sinusitis (ICD-11 Code CA01)

Acute sinusitis, identified by the ICD-11 code CA01, refers to a short-term inflammation or infection of the paranasal sinuses. This condition typically resolves within seven to 10 days, though symptoms can sometimes persist for up to four weeks. It is a common ailment that affects the nasal cavity and the hollow spaces within the facial bones.

Synonyms and Alternative Terms for Acute Sinusitis

In clinical practice and medical documentation, acute sinusitis is known by several other terms. These include, but are not limited to, acute infection of the sinus, acute inflammation of the sinus, acute rhinosinusitis, acute maxillary sinusitis, acute antritis, acute frontal sinusitis, acute ethmoidal sinusitis, acute sphenoidal sinusitis, and acute pansinusitis. The ICD-11 classification system aims to standardise these terms.

Causes and Risk Factors for Acute Sinusitis

Acute sinusitis most commonly develops following a common cold, where viral or bacterial infections cause the sinus tissues to swell. This swelling can block the natural drainage pathways of the sinuses, leading to a buildup of mucus and creating an environment where pathogens can thrive. Factors that increase the likelihood of developing acute sinusitis include:

• Existing allergies
• Structural abnormalities in the nose, such as a deviated septum or nasal polyps
• Frequent exposure to environments with a high prevalence of infections, like schools or daycares

Common Symptoms and Presentation of Acute Sinusitis

Patients experiencing acute sinusitis often present with a range of symptoms, which can include:

• Cloudy or coloured discharge from the nose
• Nasal congestion or a blocked nose
• Facial pain, pressure, or a feeling of fullness, particularly around the eyes, forehead, and cheeks
• Reduced sense of smell or taste
• Bad breath (halitosis)
• Fever
• Ear pain
• Headaches
• General fatigue
• Toothache

Treatment and Management Considerations for Acute Sinusitis

Many cases of acute sinusitis resolve with self-care and home remedies. These may include:

• Using saline nasal sprays or rinses to clear congestion
• Inhaling steam from a shower or humidifier to soothe nasal passages
• Increasing fluid intake
• Getting adequate rest
• Over-the-counter decongestants can offer symptomatic relief, but their use should be guided by a healthcare professional.

If symptoms persist for more than 10 days or worsen, a healthcare provider may prescribe antibiotics, particularly if a bacterial infection is suspected. A 'wait-and-see' approach is often adopted before prescribing antibiotics.

Documentation and Coding Considerations for Acute Sinusitis

The official ICD-11 code for acute sinusitis is CA01. This code is used for accurate documentation, billing, and reporting. While CA01 represents the general diagnosis of acute sinusitis, postcoordination options within ICD-11 allow for additional detail, such as specifying laterality (e.g., left, right, bilateral) or identifying the specific infectious agent involved. It is important to distinguish acute sinusitis from chronic sinusitis, which is defined by symptom duration exceeding three months.