A05.4 Foodborne Bacillus cereus intoxication

ICD10CM code

#### Name of the Condition
- Foodborne Bacillus cereus intoxication  
- Also known as Bacillus cereus food poisoning

#### Summary
Foodborne Bacillus cereus intoxication is a type of food poisoning caused by consuming food contaminated with Bacillus cereus bacteria. It's typically associated with improperly handled or stored foods and can lead to gastrointestinal distress.

#### Causes
- Ingestion of food contaminated with Bacillus cereus bacteria.
- Commonly found in improperly cooked or stored rice, pasta, meats, and vegetables.

#### Risk Factors
- Consumption of leftovers that have not been properly refrigerated.
- Eating food that has been left at room temperature for prolonged periods.
- Insufficient cooking or reheating of food.

#### Symptoms
- Nausea and vomiting (emetic syndrome) typically within 1-6 hours of consumption.
- Diarrhea and abdominal cramps (diarrheal syndrome) typically 8-16 hours after eating.

#### Diagnosis
- Clinical diagnosis based on history of food consumption and symptoms.
- Laboratory tests to identify Bacillus cereus from stool samples or leftover food.

#### Treatment Options
- Usually self-limiting; symptoms often resolve within 24 to 48 hours.
- Rehydration and electrolyte replacement for diarrhea.
- Antiemetic medications for severe nausea and vomiting.

#### Prognosis and Follow-Up
- Prognosis is generally good with full recovery within a couple of days.
- Rarely requires follow-up unless complications arise.

#### Complications
- Dehydration due to severe vomiting or diarrhea.
- Rarely, more severe systemic infections in immunocompromised individuals.

#### Lifestyle & Prevention
- Ensure proper food handling and storage, keeping foods at safe temperatures.
- Cook food thoroughly and refrigerate leftovers promptly.
- Practice good kitchen hygiene.

#### When to Seek Professional Help
- Inability to keep fluids down for more than a day.
- Severe dehydration or symptoms persisting beyond 48 hours.
- High fever or blood in stool.

#### Additional Resources
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) [Website](https://www.cdc.gov)
- FoodSafety.gov for guidelines on safe food handling.

#### Tips for Medical Coders
- Ensure to code specific to foodborne Bacillus cereus intoxication using ICD code **A05.4**.
- Verify patient history of recently consumed food and associated symptoms to avoid misclassification with other foodborne illnesses.

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