Name of the Condition

• Common name: Cholera
• Medical term: Cholera due to Vibrio cholerae 01, biovar cholerae

Summary

Cholera is an acute diarrheal illness caused by infection of the intestine with the bacterium Vibrio cholerae. The condition is characterized by sudden onset of severe watery diarrhea, which can lead to dehydration and even death if untreated.

Causes

Cholera is caused by the bacterium Vibrio cholerae, particularly the 01 biovar cholerae strain. It is typically spread through contaminated water or food, often in areas with poor sanitation and hygiene practices.

Risk Factors

• Living in or traveling to areas with inadequate water treatment and sanitation.
• Consumption of poorly prepared or contaminated seafood.
• Lack of access to safe water and sanitation facilities.
• Previous outbreaks in the area can increase the risk of exposure.

Symptoms

• Profuse watery diarrhea
• Vomiting
• Rapid heart rate
• Loss of skin elasticity
• Dry mucous membranes
• Low blood pressure
• Muscle cramps

Diagnosis

Cholera is diagnosed through stool sample testing to identify the presence of Vibrio cholerae. Rapid diagnostic tests may also be used in outbreaks for quicker results.

Treatment Options

• Rehydration: Oral rehydration salts (ORS) to replace lost fluids and electrolytes are crucial.
• Intravenous Fluids: In severe cases, rehydration may require IV fluids.
• Antibiotics: Can reduce the duration of diarrhea in severe cases and decrease the amount of Vibrio cholerae shed in stools.
• Zinc Supplements: Beneficial for children in reducing duration and severity.

Prognosis and Follow-Up

With prompt and adequate treatment, the prognosis is generally very good, and most patients recover completely. Follow-up focuses on monitoring hydration status and managing any complications.

Complications

• Severe dehydration can lead to shock, kidney failure, and death if not treated.
• Persistent diarrhea leading to long-term malnutrition.

Lifestyle & Prevention

• Drink safe water—boiled, chlorinated, or bottled.
• Practice good sanitation and hygiene, including hand washing with soap.
• Consume food that is properly cooked and still hot, avoid street food in risk areas.
• Vaccination is available for people traveling to high-risk areas.

When to Seek Professional Help

• Immediate medical help is advised for anyone exhibiting signs of severe dehydration, especially following severe diarrhea and vomiting.

Additional Resources

• World Health Organization (WHO) provides guidelines for cholera outbreaks.
• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) offers travel advice to endemic regions.
• Local health departments can provide information on vaccines and healthcare services.

Tips for Medical Coders

• Ensure accurate identification of the specific bacterium Vibrio cholerae 01, biovar cholerae.
• Distinguish from other types of gastroenteritis and diarrheal diseases in coding records.
• Avoid omitting related complications that may require separate coding.