B60.8 Other specified protozoal diseases

ICD10CM code

#### Name of the Condition
- Other Specified Protozoal Diseases
- ICD Code: B60.8

#### Summary
Other specified protozoal diseases refer to a group of infections caused by protozoa, which are single-celled organisms. These infections are distinct from more common protozoal diseases like malaria or giardiasis and require specific diagnosis and treatment approaches.

#### Causes
Protozoal infections under this category are caused by various lesser-known protozoans. Infection often occurs through contaminated food, water, insect bites, or contact with infected animals.

#### Risk Factors
- Travel to areas with poor sanitation or high prevalence of protozoal infections.
- Compromised immune system.
- Consumption of contaminated water or food.
- Poor hygiene practices.

#### Symptoms
- Fever
- Diarrhea or gastrointestinal disturbances
- Fatigue
- Muscle aches
- Depending on the specific protozoa, additional symptoms may include skin lesions or neurological symptoms.

#### Diagnosis
- Blood tests to identify the protozoa.
- Stool examination for protozoal cysts or trophozoites.
- Microscopic examination or culture techniques.
- In some cases, advanced imaging might be necessary to assess organ involvement.

#### Treatment Options
- Antiprotozoal medications, specific to the type of protozoa identified.
- Supportive care, including hydration and rest.
- Treatment aims to eradicate the protozoal infection and manage symptoms.

#### Prognosis and Follow-Up
- Prognosis varies depending on the specific protozoal infection and its severity.
- Early diagnosis and treatment generally lead to better outcomes.
- Regular follow-up to monitor for recurrent infections or treatment efficacy.

#### Complications
- Untreated infections might lead to severe organ damage or systemic infections.
- Potential for chronic health issues if the infection is not fully cleared.

#### Lifestyle & Prevention
- Ensuring access to clean water and sanitary facilities.
- Practicing good personal hygiene and safe food handling.
- Using protective measures like insect repellent or bed nets in endemic areas.

#### When to Seek Professional Help
- Persistent or severe symptoms like high fever, severe diarrhea, or unexplained fatigue.
- Symptoms that worsen despite initial treatment.

#### Additional Resources
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) - Protozoal Diseases
- World Health Organization (WHO) - Neglected Tropical Diseases
- American Society of Tropical Medicine and Hygiene

#### Tips for Medical Coders
- Ensure specificity by verifying the exact protozoal agent when coding.
- Avoid using B60.8 for unspecified protozoal diseases; it's for other specified conditions.
- Common error: Misclassifying common protozoal diseases under this code.

Medical Policies and Guidelines for Other specified protozoal diseases

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