Name of the Condition

• Other Urogenital Candidiasis (ICD B37.49)
• Also known as candidal infection of the urogenital tract, urogenital yeast infection.

Summary

• Other urogenital candidiasis refers to yeast infections affecting parts of the urogenital tract outside the common candida infections of the vulva and vagina. This can include infections of the bladder and urethra caused by the overgrowth of the Candida species, which are a type of yeast.

Causes

• Candida species naturally exist in the body but can multiply excessively under certain conditions, leading to infection.
• Causes can include antibiotic use, hormonal changes, immune system suppression, or diabetes.

Risk Factors

• Use of antibiotics, which alter normal flora.
• Diabetes or high blood sugar levels.
• Immunocompromised state, such as due to HIV/AIDS or chemotherapy.
• Hormonal changes, such as those during pregnancy.

Symptoms

• Pain or discomfort in the urogenital area.
• Frequent or painful urination.
• Itching or burning sensation.
• White discharge (in urinary tract infections).

Diagnosis

• Physical examination and patient history.
• Laboratory tests, including urine cultures or swabs for fungal organisms.
• Microscopic examination of samples may be used to identify Candida.

Treatment Options

• Antifungal medications, such as fluconazole or clotrimazole, either as oral tablets or topical treatments.
• Treatment focuses on the elimination of Candida overgrowth and relief from symptoms.
• Correction or management of underlying conditions, like controlling diabetes.

Prognosis and Follow-Up

• With appropriate treatment, symptoms typically resolve without significant complications.
• Follow-up may be necessary to ensure the infection is cleared, especially in recurrent cases.

Complications

• Persistent or recurrent infections if left untreated.
• Potential spread of infection to adjacent organs or into the bloodstream (candidemia) in severely immunocompromised individuals.

Lifestyle & Prevention

• Maintaining good hygiene practices.
• Managing blood sugar levels in diabetic patients.
• Limiting unnecessary use of antibiotics.
• Wearing breathable, moisture-wicking clothing to keep the urogenital area dry.

When to Seek Professional Help

• If symptoms persist despite over-the-counter treatments.
• Experiencing severe discomfort, frequent infections, or symptoms that worsen.
• Noticing unusual discharge or strong odor.

Additional Resources

• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC): Candidiasis
• Mayo Clinic: Yeast Infection (Vaginal and Urogenital)

Tips for Medical Coders

• Ensure correct identification of the infection site; B37.49 is used for urogenital candidiasis that does not fall into more specified categories like vaginal candidiasis.
• Cross-reference with patient history and physician notes for accurate documentation.
• Consider the context of the patient's symptoms and test results for precise coding.