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Other decreased white blood cell count
ICD10CM code
#### Name of the Condition
- Other decreased white blood cell count (Leukopenia)
#### Summary
- Leukopenia refers to a condition where a person has a lower-than-normal count of white blood cells (WBCs), which are crucial for fighting infections.
#### Causes
- Known causes include certain medications (e.g., chemotherapy agents), autoimmune disorders, severe infections, bone marrow diseases, and exposure to radiation.
#### Risk Factors
- Factors that increase the likelihood include existing autoimmune diseases, a family history of blood disorders, certain infections (like HIV), and undergoing chemotherapy or radiation therapy.
#### Symptoms
- Often, leukopenia itself might not cause noticeable symptoms, but can lead to frequent infections, fever, fatigue, and swelling of the lymph nodes.
#### Diagnosis
- Diagnosis typically involves a complete blood count (CBC) test to measure WBC levels. Additional tests may be needed to identify the underlying cause.
#### Treatment Options
- Treatment depends on the cause but may include antibiotics for infections, medications to boost white blood cell production, or modifying any contributing medications.
#### Prognosis and Follow-Up
- Prognosis varies by cause. Regular follow-ups are important to monitor WBC levels and adjust treatments as necessary. Many cases can be managed effectively with appropriate treatment.
#### Complications
- If not managed, leukopenia can lead to serious infections and complications due to a weakened immune system, which can be life-threatening.
#### Lifestyle & Prevention
- Prevention includes handling food safely, maintaining good hygiene, and avoiding known risk factors. A nutritious diet and adequate sleep are beneficial in supporting immune health.
#### When to Seek Professional Help
- Seek medical attention if experiencing signs of infection such as persistent fever, chills, sore throat, or unexplained fatigue, especially if recurrent.
#### Additional Resources
- Leukemia & Lymphoma Society: [lls.org](https://www.lls.org)
- American Society of Hematology: [hematology.org](https://www.hematology.org)
#### Tips for Medical Coders
- Ensure the code D72.818 is used for leukopenia cases that do not fit into other specific categories.
- Avoid coding errors by verifying any underlying conditions and ensuring accurate documentation of the decrease in white blood cells.