Name of the Condition

• Cholera due to Vibrio cholerae 01, biovar eltor

Summary

Cholera is an acute diarrheal illness caused by the bacterium Vibrio cholerae. The strain known as Vibrio cholerae 01, biovar eltor, is particularly widespread and responsible for many recent outbreaks. Infection typically results in severe watery diarrhea and dehydration, which can be life-threatening if untreated.

Causes

Cholera is caused by ingesting food or water contaminated with the Vibrio cholerae bacteria. This contamination often occurs in regions with inadequate sanitation and water treatment infrastructure.

Risk Factors

• Living in or traveling to areas where cholera is endemic.
• Consuming contaminated water or food, particularly seafood.
• Poor sanitation and hygiene practices.

Symptoms

• Profuse watery diarrhea, often described as "rice-water stools"
• Vomiting
• Rapid dehydration and electrolyte imbalance
• Muscle cramps
• Shock in severe cases

Diagnosis

• Clinical evaluation of symptoms.
• Laboratory testing of stool samples to identify Vibrio cholerae bacteria.

Treatment Options

• Oral Rehydration Solutions (ORS) to replace lost fluids and electrolytes.
• Intravenous fluids for severe dehydration.
• Antibiotics, such as doxycycline or azithromycin, to reduce symptoms and duration of illness.

Prognosis and Follow-Up

Cholera can be effectively and quickly treated, especially with early detection and prompt rehydration therapy. The prognosis is generally good with appropriate care, but the disease can be fatal without treatment. Regular monitoring prevents dehydration and ensures recovery.

Complications

• Severe dehydration leading to shock.
• Acute renal failure
• Electrolyte imbalances, such as hypokalemia, which can cause cardiac arrhythmia.

Lifestyle & Prevention

• Ensure access to clean and safe drinking water.
• Practice proper sanitation and hygiene, including hand washing with soap.
• Educate communities about cholera risks and prevention.
• Vaccination in high-risk areas has been used as a preventive measure.

When to Seek Professional Help

Seek medical attention immediately if you experience severe diarrhea, vomiting, and signs of dehydration, such as dry mouth, reduced urine output, and sunken eyes, especially if in a cholera-endemic area or after consuming suspicious food or water.

Additional Resources

• World Health Organization (WHO) - Cholera Fact Sheets
• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) - Cholera Prevention and Control

Tips for Medical Coders

• Ensure accurate identification of the Vibrio cholerae 01, biovar eltor strain.
• Avoid generalizing coding under unspecified cholera when specific identification such as A00.1 is available.
• Cross-check with clinical reports to confirm the strain and avoid miscoding.