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Streptococcal pharyngitis
ICD10CM code
#### Name of the Condition
- Common names: Streptococcal pharyngitis, Strep throat
- ICD Code: J02.0
#### Summary
Streptococcal pharyngitis, commonly known as strep throat, is a bacterial infection that causes inflammation and pain in the throat. It is primarily caused by Group A Streptococcus bacteria and is a common condition, especially in children and adolescents.
#### Causes
Streptococcal pharyngitis is caused by infection with Group A Streptococcus (GAS) bacteria. These bacteria are highly contagious and can be spread through respiratory droplets from coughing or sneezing.
#### Risk Factors
- Age: Most common in children aged 5-15 years.
- Close contact: Being in close proximity to someone who has the infection.
- Time of year: More frequent in late fall and early spring.
- Compromised immune system: Individuals with weakened immune systems may be at higher risk.
#### Symptoms
- Sore throat, often severe
- Painful swallowing
- Red and swollen tonsils, sometimes with white patches or streaks of pus
- Fever
- Headache
- Rash in some cases (scarlet fever)
- Swollen, tender lymph nodes in the neck
#### Diagnosis
- Rapid antigen detection test (RADT): A fast test that can detect streptococcus bacteria from a throat swab.
- Throat culture: A swab sample from the throat tested in a lab to confirm the presence of GAS bacteria, often used if RADT is negative but suspicion remains high.
#### Treatment Options
- Antibiotics: Penicillin or amoxicillin are commonly prescribed to eradicate the infection and reduce complications.
- Pain relievers: Over-the-counter medications like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help alleviate pain and reduce fever.
- Rest and hydration: Important to aid recovery and manage symptoms.
#### Prognosis and Follow-Up
With appropriate antibiotic treatment, most people recover completely within a week. Follow-up isn't typically needed unless symptoms persist or complications arise. Regular monitoring is important for people with recurrent infections.
#### Complications
- Rheumatic fever: A serious inflammatory condition that can affect the heart, joints, skin, and brain if untreated.
- Post-streptococcal glomerulonephritis: A kidney disease following infection.
- Peritonsillar abscess: A collection of pus around the tonsils.
#### Lifestyle & Prevention
- Good hygiene: Regular handwashing and not sharing personal items can reduce risk.
- Avoid close contact with affected individuals during contagious periods.
- Complete the full course of prescribed antibiotics to prevent resistant strains and complications.
#### When to Seek Professional Help
- Persistent or severe sore throat and fever
- Difficulty breathing or swallowing
- Rash alongside a sore throat
- Lack of improvement after starting antibiotics
#### Additional Resources
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC): [CDC Strep Throat Information](https://www.cdc.gov/groupastrep/diseases-public/strep-throat.html)
- American Academy of Pediatrics: [AAP Strep Throat Information](https://www.healthychildren.org/English/health-issues/conditions/ear-nose-throat/Pages/strep-throat.aspx)
#### Tips for Medical Coders
- Accurate coding requires confirmation that the pharyngitis is due to streptococcal infection, not viral.
- A common error is coding for non-specific sore throat (J02.9) or tonsillitis (J03.0), instead of J02.0, without bacteriological confirmation.