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ICD Hub / Diseases of the skin (L00–L99) / EA50 - Toxin-mediated cutaneous reactions to distant or systemic bacterial infection
ICD-11

ICD-11 Codes
for EA50 - Toxin-mediated cutaneous reactions to distant or systemic bacterial infection
Teodor Jurukovski January 1, 1970
Fact checked by: Teodor Jurukovski
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Understanding Toxin-Mediated Cutaneous Reactions (ICD-11 EA50)

This section covers the ICD-11 code EA50, which represents a group of conditions where the skin reacts to toxins produced by bacterial infections. These reactions can occur even if the primary bacterial infection is located elsewhere in the body or is systemic. Common examples falling under this classification include Staphylococcal Scalded Skin Syndrome (SSSS), also known as Ritter's disease or Pemphigus Neonatorum, and Staphylococcal scarlatina. Other related conditions like Streptococcal toxin-mediated perineal erythema and Erythema marginatum rheumaticum are also classified here. The ICD-11 code for toxin-mediated cutaneous reactions to distant or systemic bacterial infection is EA50.

Recognising the Signs: Symptoms and Presentation

The presentation of toxin-mediated cutaneous reactions can vary, but often involves significant skin changes. A hallmark symptom, particularly in Staphylococcal Scalded Skin Syndrome (SSSS), is the rapid development of widespread redness (erythema) across the skin, often starting on the face and spreading. This is frequently followed by the formation of large, fluid-filled blisters. When these blisters rupture, the skin appears scalded, leading to extensive peeling of the outermost layer. Other associated symptoms may include fever and irritability. A characteristic sign, Nikolsky's sign, where the skin can be dislodged with gentle pressure, may also be present.

Bacterial Triggers and Contributing Factors

The underlying cause of conditions classified under ICD-11 code EA50 is the presence of specific bacteria that produce potent toxins. Staphylococcus aureus is a common culprit, responsible for Staphylococcal Scalded Skin Syndrome and Staphylococcal scarlatina. Streptococcus species can also cause toxin-mediated skin reactions, such as Streptococcal toxin-mediated perineal erythema. These toxins circulate in the bloodstream or act locally, triggering the characteristic skin manifestations. The bacterial infection itself may not be directly on the skin but rather a distant or systemic infection.

Diagnostic Approaches for EA50 Conditions

Diagnosing toxin-mediated cutaneous reactions typically involves a combination of clinical assessment and laboratory investigations. Healthcare professionals will evaluate the characteristic skin symptoms, such as the pattern of rash, blistering, and peeling, alongside the patient's overall condition, including fever. Laboratory tests may be performed to identify the causative bacteria and their toxins. This can include bacterial cultures from skin lesions, blood, or other relevant sites. Confirmation of Staphylococcus aureus or Streptococcus species helps in establishing the diagnosis for conditions like SSSS or streptococcal toxic shock syndrome.

Management and Treatment Considerations

Effective management of toxin-mediated cutaneous reactions focuses on addressing the root cause and providing supportive care. Prompt administration of appropriate antibiotics is crucial to combat the underlying bacterial infection and halt further toxin production. Treatment for Staphylococcal Scalded Skin Syndrome, for instance, often involves intravenous antibiotics. Supportive care is paramount, especially for severe cases involving extensive skin loss. This includes meticulous wound care to prevent secondary infections, maintaining fluid and electrolyte balance, pain management, and temperature regulation.

Coding and Documentation for EA50

Accurate medical coding and documentation are essential for billing and record-keeping. The ICD-11 code for toxin-mediated cutaneous reactions to distant or systemic bacterial infection is EA50. This code is used to classify conditions where bacterial toxins cause skin manifestations. Common clinical synonyms and patient-friendly terms such as Staphylococcal Scalded Skin Syndrome (SSSS), Ritter's disease, and Staphylococcal scarlatina should be considered during documentation to ensure comprehensive reporting. This ICD-11 code is billable and reportable for relevant patient encounters.

Frequently asked questions

What does the ICD-11 code EA50 represent?
EA50 represents toxin-mediated cutaneous reactions that originate from a distant or systemic bacterial infection.
What types of conditions are classified under EA50?
This category includes specified conditions such as staphylococcal scalded skin syndrome and streptococcal toxin-mediated perineal erythema, as well as other specified and unspecified toxin-mediated cutaneous reactions to distant or systemic bacterial infections.
How are unspecified toxin-mediated cutaneous reactions to distant or systemic bacterial infections coded in ICD-11?
Unspecified cases are coded using EA50.Z.
When should the 'Other specified' code within the EA50 category be used?
The 'Other specified' code, EA50.Y, is used when a toxin-mediated cutaneous reaction to a distant or systemic bacterial infection is identified but does not fit a more specific sub-category.
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