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ICD Hub / Diseases of the respiratory system (J00–J99) / CA04 - Acute laryngopharyngitis
ICD-11

ICD-11 Codes
for CA04 - Acute laryngopharyngitis
Teodor Jurukovski January 1, 1970
Fact checked by: Teodor Jurukovski
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Understanding Acute Laryngopharyngitis (ICD-11 Code CA04)

Acute laryngopharyngitis, identified by the ICD-11 code CA04, is an upper respiratory tract condition characterised by inflammation affecting both the larynx and the pharynx. This condition, also known clinically as pharyngolaryngitis or simply laryngopharyngitis, presents with an acute onset of throat discomfort and inflammation. While often associated with common cold symptoms, the specific involvement of both the larynx and pharynx distinguishes it. It is typically a self-limiting illness that resolves within approximately two weeks.

Recognising the Signs: Symptoms of Acute Laryngopharyngitis

The primary symptom of acute laryngopharyngitis is a sore throat, often accompanied by visible pharyngeal inflammation. Other common indicators may include hoarseness or voice loss, fever, headache, and sometimes nausea, vomiting, or abdominal pain. The presence of pharyngeal exudate and cervical adenopathy can also be noted. In contrast, symptoms such as rhinorrhea, nasal congestion, and cough are more suggestive of a purely viral upper respiratory infection rather than a bacterial cause of laryngopharyngitis.

Identifying the Triggers: Causes and Risk Factors for Acute Laryngopharyngitis

The aetiology of acute laryngopharyngitis is most commonly viral. However, bacterial pathogens, particularly group A Streptococcus (GAS), are also significant causes. Fungal infections, such as those caused by Candida albicans, can occasionally contribute. Factors that increase the risk of bacterial laryngopharyngitis include nasal colonisation with GAS and having close contact with an infected individual. Bacterial infections tend to be more prevalent during winter and early spring, whereas enteroviral infections are more common in the summer and autumn months.

Diagnosing Acute Laryngopharyngitis

The diagnostic process for acute laryngopharyngitis typically begins with a thorough medical history and physical examination. Clinicians may look for specific signs such as pharyngeal inflammation and exudate. To identify a bacterial cause, especially group A Streptococcus, rapid antigen detection tests or throat cultures may be performed. Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) testing can also be utilised for confirmation. It is important to note that patients presenting with clear viral symptoms, such as significant nasal congestion and cough, may not require specific testing for GAS.

Managing Acute Laryngopharyngitis

Management of acute laryngopharyngitis primarily focuses on supportive care to alleviate symptoms. This often includes the use of analgesics to manage throat pain and discomfort. For confirmed bacterial infections, such as those caused by group A Streptococcus, antibiotic treatment is prescribed. The objective of treating GAS infections is to prevent complications like acute rheumatic fever, reduce the duration and severity of symptoms, and limit transmission to others. For most viral cases, the condition resolves on its own without specific medical intervention beyond symptom relief.

Coding and Documentation Considerations for ICD-11 Code CA04

Accurate medical coding and documentation are crucial for effective healthcare management and billing. The ICD-11 code CA04 represents Acute laryngopharyngitis. This code serves as a stem code, allowing for further specification through the use of extension codes to denote the causative infectious agent, if identified. For instance, specific bacterial or viral agents can be linked to CA04 via postcoordination to create a more detailed code cluster. Precise documentation of the diagnosis, including the identified aetiology and any relevant symptoms or complications, is essential for accurate medical records and for supporting billing and reporting requirements.

Frequently asked questions

What is the ICD-11 classification for Acute laryngopharyngitis?
Acute laryngopharyngitis is classified under Upper respiratory tract disorders in ICD-11.
How is Acute laryngopharyngitis described in ICD-11?
ICD-11 describes Acute laryngopharyngitis as an infection of the laryngopharynx, considered an upper respiratory tract infection involving multiple sites.
What are the synonyms for Acute laryngopharyngitis in ICD-11?
Synonyms for Acute laryngopharyngitis in ICD-11 include pharyngolaryngitis, laryngopharyngitis, and hypopharyngitis.
Can specific infectious agents be coded with ICD-11 code CA04?
Yes, ICD-11 allows for post-coordination with codes for infectious agents to specify the etiology of Acute laryngopharyngitis.
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