Name of the Condition

• Contact with and (suspected) exposure to tuberculosis (ICD-10 Z20.1).

Summary

• This condition code is used for individuals who have been in contact with someone with tuberculosis (TB) or are suspected of being exposed to TB. It does not confirm an active case of tuberculosis but indicates potential exposure.

Causes

• The situation arises from close proximity to an individual with active TB, especially in settings with poor ventilation. TB is a contagious infection caused by the bacterium Mycobacterium tuberculosis.

Risk Factors

• Risk factors include close contact with someone with active TB, living or working in crowded places like shelters or prisons, and having a weakened immune system.

Symptoms

• While exposure itself may not lead to symptoms, the development of active TB could cause symptoms such as a persistent cough, fever, night sweats, and weight loss.

Diagnosis

• Diagnosis of TB exposure may include a skin test called the tuberculin skin test (TST) or a blood test known as the interferon-gamma release assay (IGRA). A chest X-ray may be performed if these indicate exposure.

Treatment Options

• If latent TB infection is confirmed, preventive therapy (e.g., isoniazid) is recommended to prevent progression to active TB. Individuals should follow the prescribed regimen to reduce the risk of developing active disease.

Prognosis and Follow-Up

• With timely preventive treatment, individuals can significantly lower the risk of active TB. Regular follow-up appointments are important to monitor for any development of symptoms.

Complications

• Without appropriate monitoring or treatment of latent tuberculosis infection, there is a risk of developing active TB, which can lead to serious health complications and transmission to others.

Lifestyle & Prevention

• Preventive measures include avoiding close contact with individuals diagnosed with active TB, maintaining good ventilation if exposed, and undergoing regular TB screening if at high risk.

When to Seek Professional Help

• Seek immediate medical attention if you develop symptoms such as a chronic cough, chest pain, difficulty breathing, or unexplained weight loss, especially if you have been exposed to someone with TB.

Additional Resources

• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) - Tuberculosis: www.cdc.gov/tb
• World Health Organization (WHO) - Tuberculosis: www.who.int/health-topics/tuberculosis

Tips for Medical Coders

• Ensure accurate coding by confirming whether the exposure is suspected or confirmed contact without active disease.
• Common coding errors include confusing exposure with an active TB diagnosis; Z20.1 should only be used for exposure without current disease.