ICD-11 Codes
for CA05.1 - Acute tracheitis

Teodor Jurukovski January 1, 1970

Fact checked by: Teodor Jurukovski

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Understanding Acute Tracheitis (CA05.1)

Acute tracheitis, identified by the ICD-11 code CA05.1, refers to an acute inflammation of the trachea, commonly known as the windpipe. While the trachea is anatomically part of the lower respiratory system, conditions like acute tracheitis are often classified under upper respiratory tract disorders. It frequently develops as a secondary bacterial infection following an initial viral illness.

Alternative Terms for Acute Tracheitis

Acute tracheitis is also recognised by several other clinical terms. These include acute tracheitis NOS, tracheitis NOS, tracheal inflammation, acute catarrhal tracheitis, catarrhal tracheitis, acute pneumococcal tracheitis, pneumococcal tracheitis, acute viral tracheitis, and viral tracheitis. These synonyms help in documenting and searching for the condition across different medical resources.

Factors Contributing to Acute Tracheitis

The development of acute tracheitis can be attributed to several factors. Bacterial infections are a primary cause, frequently involving pathogens such as Staphylococcus aureus and streptococci. These bacterial infections often occur subsequent to a viral upper respiratory infection, making it a secondary complication. In some instances, voice abuse can also contribute to the inflammation of the trachea.

Key Symptoms of Acute Tracheitis

Recognising the symptoms of acute tracheitis is crucial for timely medical attention. Common signs include a severe, dry cough, often described as barking or croup-like. Patients may experience loud squeaking noises during breathing (stridor), a scratchy or sore throat sensation, and a hoarse voice. A high fever is typical, and there might be chest pain associated with coughing. In more severe cases, difficulty breathing and the production of significant amounts of pus-filled secretions can occur. Some individuals may also cough up blood. If experiencing severe breathing difficulties, persistent high fever, or significant discomfort, seeking prompt medical advice is recommended.

Identifying Acute Tracheitis

The diagnosis of acute tracheitis is primarily based on a thorough clinical evaluation, including a review of the patient's medical history and the presence of characteristic symptoms. While specific diagnostic tests may not always be required, healthcare providers assess the inflammation of the tracheal lining to confirm the condition. The ICD-11 code CA05.1 serves as a key identifier for this diagnosis in medical documentation and billing.

Approaches to Managing Acute Tracheitis

Management of acute tracheitis focuses on alleviating symptoms and treating the underlying cause. For bacterial infections, anti-infective agents, including specific antibiotics, may be prescribed. Supportive care is also important, which can involve remedies such as peppermint or eucalyptus, and ensuring adequate hydration. Medical professionals will determine the most appropriate treatment plan based on the severity and cause of the inflammation.

Associated ICD-11 Conditions

Acute tracheitis (CA05.1) is closely related to other conditions within the ICD-11 classification system. These include Acute laryngitis (CA05.0) and Acute laryngotracheitis (CA05.2). Understanding these related codes is important for comprehensive medical coding and reporting.