Cellulocutaneous Plague (A20.1)

Name of the Condition

• Common Name: Cellulocutaneous Plague
• Technical Term: Cutaneous Plague

Summary

Cellulocutaneous plague is a bacterial infection caused by Yersinia pestis. It primarily affects the skin and can lead to swollen, painful lymph nodes near the site of infection, known as buboes. This form of plague occurs when the bacteria enter through cuts or breaks in the skin.

Causes

• Caused by infection with the bacterium Yersinia pestis, typically transmitted through bites from infected fleas or direct contact with infected animal tissue.

Risk Factors

• Exposure to flea-infested animals, such as rodents.
• Living in or traveling to areas where the plague is endemic.
• Occupations that involve handling wildlife or animals.

Symptoms

• Swollen and painful lymph nodes (buboes)
• Fever and chills
• Fatigue and muscle aches
• Skin sores at the site of infection

Diagnosis

• Blood tests to detect Yersinia pestis bacteria.
• Culture of fluid from a bubo.
• Serologic tests or rapid diagnostic tests (RDT) if available.

Treatment Options

• Antibiotics are the primary treatment and include streptomycin, gentamicin, or doxycycline.
• Supportive care to manage symptoms such as pain and fever.
• Early treatment is crucial to prevent progression and complications.

Prognosis and Follow-Up

• With prompt antibiotic treatment, the prognosis is favorable with a reduction in mortality.
• Follow-up care to ensure complete resolution of symptoms and monitor for any complications.

Complications

• If untreated, cellulocutaneous plague can progress to more severe forms such as septicemic or pneumonic plague.
• Risk of secondary infections.

Lifestyle & Prevention

• Avoid contact with rodents and other wildlife in endemic areas.
• Use flea control products on pets and personal insect repellent to prevent flea bites.
• Ensure proper handling and disposal of potentially infected animal carcasses.

When to Seek Professional Help

• Seek immediate medical attention if you develop swollen lymph nodes, fever, or sores after possible exposure to flea bites or handling of wild animals.

Additional Resources

• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) - Plague
• World Health Organization (WHO) - Plague

Tips for Medical Coders

• Ensure accurate coding by confirming the diagnosis with laboratory results or physician notes specifying cellulocutaneous plague.
• Be aware of and cross-reference other related plague codes to differentiate from septicemic or pneumonic forms.