A04.5 Campylobacter enteritis

Name of the Condition

• Campylobacter enteritis
• Also known as Campylobacter infection or bacterial gastroenteritis caused by Campylobacter.

Summary

• Campylobacter enteritis is a bacterial infection that affects the intestinal tract, often leading to symptoms like diarrhea, stomach cramps, and fever.

Causes

• Caused by infection with Campylobacter bacteria, typically through consuming contaminated food or water, particularly undercooked poultry.

Risk Factors

• Consuming raw or undercooked poultry.
• Drinking untreated water.
• Close contact with animals, especially livestock.
• Traveling to developing countries with poor sanitation.

Symptoms

• Diarrhea, often bloody.
• Abdominal pain and cramps.
• Fever.
• Nausea and vomiting.
• Fatigue.

Diagnosis

• Stool culture is the primary method.
• Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) testing for Campylobacter DNA in stool samples.

Treatment Options

• Most cases resolve on their own with rest and hydration.
• Antibiotics like azithromycin in severe cases.
• Rehydration therapy to prevent dehydration.

Prognosis and Follow-Up

• Full recovery is common within a week.
• Follow-up may include stool tests to ensure the infection is cleared in severe cases.

Complications

• Dehydration from severe diarrhea.
• Guillain-Barré syndrome in rare cases.
• Reactive arthritis.

Lifestyle & Prevention

• Cook poultry thoroughly and wash hands after handling raw meat.
• Avoid unpasteurized milk and untreated water.
• Maintain proper kitchen hygiene.

When to Seek Professional Help

• Severe diarrhea or bloody stools.
• Persistent fever.
• Signs of dehydration, such as decreased urination, dry mouth, or dizziness.

Additional Resources

• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Campylobacter Infections.
• World Health Organization (WHO) Campylobacter.

Tips for Medical Coders

• Ensure accurate documentation of the infection source when possible.
• Avoid confusion with other types of gastroenteritis by confirming it’s Campylobacter-related.