ICD-11 code 1F60.0 refers to the diagnosis of Eosinophilic meningitis due to Angiostrongylus cantonensis. This code is used by healthcare professionals to classify cases of meningitis caused by this specific parasite. Angiostrongylus cantonensis is a parasitic worm that is commonly found in rats and can infect humans through consumption of contaminated food or water.
Eosinophilic meningitis is a rare form of meningitis characterized by an elevated number of eosinophils in the cerebrospinal fluid. This condition can cause symptoms such as headache, neck stiffness, nausea, and vomiting. In cases where Angiostrongylus cantonensis is the cause of eosinophilic meningitis, treatment typically involves anti-parasitic medications and supportive care to alleviate symptoms and prevent complications.
Healthcare providers use ICD-11 codes like 1F60.0 to accurately document and track cases of specific diseases and conditions. This coding system helps to standardize medical records, facilitate research, and improve communication among healthcare professionals. By using specific codes like 1F60.0, clinicians can ensure that patients receive appropriate treatment and follow-up care for conditions such as eosinophilic meningitis due to Angiostrongylus cantonensis.
Table of Contents:
- #️⃣ Coding Considerations
- 🔎 Symptoms
- 🩺 Diagnosis
- 💊 Treatment & Recovery
- 🌎 Prevalence & Risk
- 😷 Prevention
- 🦠 Similar Diseases
#️⃣ Coding Considerations
The equivalent SNOMED CT code for the ICD-11 code 1F60.0, which represents Eosinophilic meningitis due to Angiostrongylus cantonensis, is 441124006. This SNOMED CT code identifies the specific condition of eosinophilic meningitis caused by the parasitic nematode Angiostrongylus cantonensis. SNOMED CT codes are used in healthcare to standardize the terminology and coding of patient diagnoses, ensuring consistency and accuracy in medical records. By using SNOMED CT codes, healthcare providers can easily communicate and share information about patient conditions, treatments, and outcomes. The utilization of SNOMED CT codes improves patient care by streamlining data exchange and facilitating research and analysis in the healthcare industry.
In the United States, ICD-11 is not yet in use. The U.S. is currently using ICD-10-CM (Clinical Modification), which has been adapted from the WHO’s ICD-10 to better suit the American healthcare system’s requirements for billing and clinical purposes. The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) have not yet set a specific date for the transition to ICD-11.
The situation in Europe varies by country. Some European nations are considering the adoption of ICD-11 or are in various stages of planning and pilot studies. However, as with the U.S., full implementation may take several years due to similar requirements for system updates and training.
🔎 Symptoms
Symptoms of 1F60.0 typically manifest within one to three weeks after ingesting the infective larvae of Angiostrongylus cantonensis through contaminated food or water. The early stages of infection may present with nonspecific symptoms such as headache, fever, and nausea. As the infection progresses, individuals may experience severe headache, neck stiffness, and photophobia.
One of the hallmark symptoms of eosinophilic meningitis due to Angiostrongylus cantonensis is the presence of high levels of eosinophils in the cerebrospinal fluid. In addition to headaches and neck stiffness, individuals may also develop symptoms such as vomiting, muscle weakness, and altered mental status. It is important to note that the severity of symptoms can vary from mild to life-threatening, depending on the extent of the infection and the individual’s immune response.
In some cases, individuals with eosinophilic meningitis due to Angiostrongylus cantonensis may also develop neurological symptoms such as paresthesia, tremors, and seizures. Respiratory symptoms, such as cough and shortness of breath, may also occur in severe cases. Prompt diagnosis and treatment are essential to prevent complications and improve outcomes for individuals affected by this condition.
🩺 Diagnosis
Diagnosis of 1F60.0, or Eosinophilic meningitis due to Angiostrongylus cantonensis, often involves a combination of clinical presentation, laboratory tests, and imaging studies. Symptoms of eosinophilic meningitis may include headache, stiff neck, nausea, vomiting, and fever. A history of exposure to the definitive host of Angiostrongylus cantonensis, such as consumption of raw or undercooked snails, may also be indicative.
Laboratory tests can assist in diagnosing eosinophilic meningitis due to Angiostrongylus cantonensis. Blood tests may reveal elevated levels of eosinophils, a type of white blood cell associated with parasitic infections. Lumbar puncture, or spinal tap, may be performed to analyze cerebrospinal fluid for increased eosinophils and elevated protein levels, which are commonly seen in cases of eosinophilic meningitis.
Imaging studies, such as computed tomography (CT) or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans, may be useful in evaluating the presence of any neurological abnormalities associated with eosinophilic meningitis due to Angiostrongylus cantonensis. These imaging studies can help identify any signs of inflammation or damage to the brain or spinal cord that may be caused by the parasite. Additionally, imaging studies can assist in ruling out other potential causes of the patient’s symptoms.
💊 Treatment & Recovery
Treatment for 1F60.0, Eosinophilic meningitis due to Angiostrongylus cantonensis, typically involves medication to reduce inflammation and manage symptoms. Corticosteroids, such as prednisone, may be prescribed to reduce swelling in the brain and spinal cord. Antiparasitic medications, such as albendazole or mebendazole, may also be used to kill the parasitic infection causing the meningitis.
In some cases, patients with Eosinophilic meningitis may require hospitalization for more intensive treatment. This may involve intravenous fluids and medications to manage severe symptoms. Monitoring of vital signs and neurological function is essential to ensure the patient’s condition is stable and improving.
Recovery from Eosinophilic meningitis due to Angiostrongylus cantonensis can vary depending on the severity of the infection and the individual’s overall health. Most patients recover fully with appropriate treatment, but some may experience long-term neurological complications. Follow-up care with a healthcare provider is important to monitor for any lingering symptoms and ensure a full recovery.
🌎 Prevalence & Risk
In the United States, cases of eosinophilic meningitis due to Angiostrongylus cantonensis are rare, but have been reported in various states such as Hawaii, Florida, and California. The prevalence of this condition is highest in regions where the intermediate hosts, such as snails and slugs, are common, leading to increased risk of human infection. Due to globalization and increased travel, there have been instances of individuals acquiring the infection outside of the United States and bringing it back to the country.
In Europe, cases of eosinophilic meningitis due to Angiostrongylus cantonensis are extremely rare. Most cases reported in Europe have been seen in travelers who have visited endemic regions and returned with the infection. The cool climate and less hospitable conditions for the intermediate hosts make Europe a less common location for the parasite to thrive and result in human infections.
In Asia, particularly in Southeast Asian countries such as Thailand, Taiwan, and China, eosinophilic meningitis due to Angiostrongylus cantonensis is more prevalent. These regions have a suitable climate for the intermediate hosts to thrive, leading to a higher risk of human infection. Poor sanitation practices and lack of awareness about the disease also contribute to the higher prevalence in Asia compared to other regions.
In Africa, cases of eosinophilic meningitis due to Angiostrongylus cantonensis are infrequently reported. The prevalence of this condition in Africa is likely underestimated due to limited surveillance and diagnostic capabilities in many countries on the continent. Further research and increased awareness are needed to better understand the true prevalence of the disease in Africa.
😷 Prevention
To prevent 1F60.0 (Eosinophilic meningitis due to Angiostrongylus cantonensis), it is important to take measures to reduce the risk of ingesting the parasite. One way to prevent the disease is to thoroughly wash fruits and vegetables before consuming them. This can help to remove any potential Angiostrongylus cantonensis larvae that may be present on the produce.
Avoiding the consumption of raw or undercooked snails and slugs is another key step in preventing 1F60.0. These creatures can harbor the parasite responsible for causing eosinophilic meningitis. By ensuring all snails and slugs are thoroughly cooked before eating, individuals can reduce their risk of infection.
Furthermore, individuals should be cautious when handling snails, slugs, or their slime trails. Direct contact with these creatures can potentially lead to infection with Angiostrongylus cantonensis. Practicing good hand hygiene after touching these animals or their trails can help prevent exposure to the parasite and reduce the risk of developing eosinophilic meningitis due to Angiostrongylus cantonensis.
🦠 Similar Diseases
Eosinophilic meningoencephalitis, also known as EM, is a rare disease caused by an allergic reaction to parasitic worms, resulting in inflammation of the brain and spinal cord. The symptoms of EM include severe headaches, stiff neck, fever, nausea, and vomiting. This condition is often diagnosed through a combination of clinical symptoms, blood tests showing elevated eosinophils, and imaging studies such as MRI or CT scans.
Eosinophilic meningitis due to Parastrongylus cantonensis is a similar disease to 1F60.0, caused by a different species of parasitic worm. Also known as rat lungworm disease, this condition occurs when a person consumes raw or undercooked snails or slugs infected with the parasite. The symptoms of eosinophilic meningitis due to Parastrongylus cantonensis are similar to those of angiostrongyliasis, including headaches, stiff neck, and fever. Diagnosis is typically made through a combination of clinical symptoms, blood tests showing elevated eosinophils, and possibly detection of the parasite in the cerebrospinal fluid.
Eosinophilic meningitis due to Gnathostoma spinigerum is another disease similar to 1F60.0, caused by a different parasitic worm species. Gnathostomiasis is a parasitic infection that occurs when a person consumes raw or undercooked freshwater fish or poultry infected with the parasite. The symptoms of eosinophilic meningitis due to Gnathostoma spinigerum can include intense headaches, neck pain, nausea, and vomiting. Diagnosis is typically made based on clinical symptoms, blood tests showing elevated eosinophils, and possibly detection of the parasite in the cerebrospinal fluid.
Eosinophilic meningitis caused by other parasitic infections, such as cysticercosis, toxocariasis, or schistosomiasis, can also present with symptoms similar to 1F60.0. These diseases are caused by different parasitic worms or protozoa and are typically acquired through ingestion of contaminated food or water, or contact with infected snails or freshwater sources. The symptoms of eosinophilic meningitis due to other parasitic infections can vary but often include headaches, fever, nausea, and vomiting. Diagnosis is typically based on clinical symptoms, blood tests showing elevated eosinophils, and possibly imaging studies to detect the presence of parasites in the central nervous system.