ICD 10 CM A42.8 | Description & Clinical Information

ICD 10 A42.8 describes a specific type of infectious disease caused by the bacterium Actinomyces israelii, which is typically found in the nose and throat, and commonly affects the face and neck, but can also spread to other areas of the body such as the chest, abdomen, pelvis, or elsewhere, often due to poor dental hygiene or tooth abscess, and is identified by the healthcare provider as a form of actinomycosis not represented by any other code in this category.

Official Description Of A42.8

The ICD 10 CM book defines ICD 10 code A42.8 as:

When To Use A42.8

The diagnosis describes by the ICD 10 CM A42.8 code pertains to a bacterial infection called actinomycosis. This infection is caused by Actinomyces bacteria that usually reside in the mouth or respiratory tract but can travel to other parts of the body as well. The bacteria typically penetrate the soft tissues of the body, forming abscesses, and draining sores.

Patients with other forms of actinomycosis may exhibit a range of symptoms including fever, mild pain, draining sores especially on the chest wall, a lump or swelling on the face or neck. Weight loss and other symptoms may vary depending on the manifestation. Actinomycosis is a rare condition that requires prompt medical attention for proper diagnosis and treatment.

Providers diagnose the condition based on various factors, including the patient’s symptoms, history, and physical examination. Blood tests may reveal elevated erythrocyte sedimentation rate and C-reactive protein (both markers of inflammation). Laboratory tests for culture and stains of the patient’s sputum, fluid drained from lesions or infected areas, or biopsy specimens can also detect Actinomyces organisms.

Once the diagnosis is confirmed, treatment usually involves antibiotics, such as penicillin, tetracycline, doxycycline, clindamycin, and erythromycin. The provider may also perform surgical drainage of lesions or abscesses to remove the infected material. This can be important, as actinomycosis is known for developing into chronic and disabling conditions if not treated promptly and effectively.

Besides treatment, the provider may educate patients on the prevention of the disease by maintaining good oral hygiene. Considering the fact that the bacteria responsible for actinomycosis usually reside in the mouth, proper management of oral health can play a significant role in preventing the onset of the infection.

Therefore, the ICD 10 CM A42.8 code pertains to a rare but serious bacterial infection called actinomycosis that requires prompt medical attention. Patients with other forms of actinomycosis may exhibit a range of symptoms depending on their manifestation. Treatment options usually include antibiotics and surgical drainage of lesions or abscesses. Besides treatment, proper oral hygiene can play a vital role in preventing the onset of the infection.