ICD 10 CM A85.8 | Description & Clinical Information

ICD 10 A85.8 describes a medical condition characterized by inflammation and swelling of the brain caused by a virus, which can affect anyone but is particularly dangerous for infants and individuals with weakened immune systems, and is used when the specific type of viral encephalitis is not represented by another code.

Official Description Of A85.8

The ICD 10 CM book defines ICD 10 code A85.8 as:

When To Use A85.8

The diagnosis describes by the ICD-10 CM A85.8 code pertains to viral encephalitis, a condition triggered by a viral infection that causes inflammation in the brain, according to the World Health Organization (WHO). The causative agents of viral encephalitis typically originate from infected animals, such as mosquitoes, ticks, biting insects, and spiders, and occasionally, through the ingestion of contaminated animal milk. When a vector, such as a mosquito, bites an infected mammal, including humans, it acquires the infection and can transmit it to other animals or humans.

The symptoms of viral encephalitis vary from asymptomatic or mild flu-like symptoms to severe symptoms that require hospitalization. Patients with mild cases may experience fever, headache, lethargy, stiff neck and back, nausea, and vomiting, while those with severe cases may also experience brain swelling, confusion, partial paralysis, loss of consciousness, memory loss, and seizures. The diagnostic process for viral encephalitis starts with a medical history evaluation, a physical examination, and a neurological examination to assess the patient’s motor and sensory functions. Additionally, imaging techniques, such as computed tomography (CT), electroencephalograph (EEG), and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), may be employed to detect any abnormalities in the brain.

Further diagnostic steps include the use of a spinal tap to examine cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) and taking blood samples to detect the virus and specific immunoglobulin M (IgM) antibodies in the serum. This confirms the diagnosis of viral encephalitis. Elevated liver enzymes may also indicate the presence of the virus.

Currently, no specific antiviral treatment exists for viral encephalitis. However, symptom management is essential in treating mild to severe cases. Providers may administer intravenous corticosteroids to alleviate inflammation in the brain, provide bed rest, fluids, over-the-counter pain medication, and sedatives to soothe restless patients and control seizures in severe cases.

Preventative measures are key in avoiding viral encephalitis, and patients should be educated on prophylactic measures. The CDC recommends the use of mosquito repellents containing DEET or Picaridin and wearing protective clothing, such as long-sleeved shirts and pants, to prevent mosquito bites. Moreover, eliminating mosquito breeding sites such as standing water, where mosquitoes tend to lay their eggs and regularly cleaning bird baths, flower pots, and other outdoor containers that may contain stagnant water is crucial in preventing the proliferation of mosquitoes.

In conclusion, viral encephalitis is a serious condition that can be fatal if left untreated. The diagnostic process involves evaluating the patient’s medical history, physical and neurological examination, and employing imaging and lab tests. While there is no specific treatment for viral encephalitis, symptom management can help ease the patient’s discomfort during recovery. Preventative measures such as mosquito control and safe food preparation can help patients avoid viral encephalitis. As medical coders, understanding how to code and identify viral encephalitis is essential in ensuring proper reimbursement for healthcare providers and facilitating proper patient care.