A36.82 Diphtheritic radiculomyelitis

ICD10CM code

#### Name of the Condition
- Diphtheritic Radiculomyelitis

#### Summary
- Diphtheritic radiculomyelitis is a rare neurological complication that occurs after an infection with the diphtheria bacterium. It involves inflammation of the spinal nerve roots (radiculitis) and the spinal cord (myelitis), leading to neurological symptoms.

#### Causes
- The condition is caused by infection with Corynebacterium diphtheriae, the bacterium responsible for diphtheria. The toxin produced by this bacteria can spread through the bloodstream and affect the nervous system, causing radiculomyelitis.

#### Risk Factors
- Non-vaccination or incomplete vaccination against diphtheria.
- Exposure to someone infected with diphtheria.
- Compromised immune system, making the body more susceptible to infections.

#### Symptoms
- Weakness or paralysis in limbs.
- Numbness or tingling sensation.
- Pain in the back or neck.
- Muscle stiffness.
- Difficulty in breathing if the diaphragm is affected.

#### Diagnosis
- Blood tests to confirm diphtheria infection.
- Electromyography (EMG) to assess electrical activity in nerves and muscles.
- Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) or other imaging to examine inflammation in the spinal cord.

#### Treatment Options
- Administration of diphtheria antitoxin to neutralize the toxin.
- Antibiotics such as penicillin or erythromycin to eradicate the bacterial infection.
- Supportive care including respiratory support if there are breathing difficulties.
- Physical therapy may be needed to improve muscle strength and coordination.

#### Prognosis and Follow-Up
- Early diagnosis and prompt treatment can lead to recovery, though some may experience residual neurological deficits.
- Regular follow-up to monitor and manage any ongoing symptoms or complications.

#### Complications
- Permanent neurological damage.
- Breathing problems due to affected diaphragm muscles.
- Heart complications from the spread of the diphtheria toxin.

#### Lifestyle & Prevention
- Ensure complete vaccination with the diphtheria vaccine (often combined with tetanus and pertussis vaccines).
- Maintain good hygiene to avoid infections.
- Avoid close contact with infected individuals.

#### When to Seek Professional Help
- Seek immediate medical attention if experiencing symptoms like severe weakness, difficulty breathing, or numbness after exposure to diphtheria.

#### Additional Resources
- [Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) - Diphtheria](https://www.cdc.gov/diphtheria/index.html)
- [World Health Organization (WHO) - Diphtheria](https://www.who.int/health-topics/diphtheria)

#### Tips for Medical Coders
- Ensure to record both the underlying diphtheria infection and the specific neurological complication of radiculomyelitis.
- Verify the correct ICD code (A36.82) for billing purposes.
- Be attentive to updates in ICD coding guidelines regarding diphtheria-related conditions.

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