B600 - Babesiosis - a tick-borne infection that affects red blood cells
International Classification of Diseases
What is a ICD-10 Code?
ICD-10 (International Classification of Diseases, 10th Revision) codes are used to classify and code all diagnoses, symptoms, and procedures recorded in association with hospital care. These codes provide a standardized way to track health conditions and their treatment outcomes.
Detailed Description
Babesiosis is an infection caused by tiny parasites called Babesia that are transmitted through tick bites, primarily from deer ticks (the same ticks that carry Lyme disease). These parasites invade and destroy red blood cells, which can cause symptoms similar to malaria including fever, chills, fatigue, body aches, and sometimes anemia. The infection is most commonly found in the northeastern and upper midwestern United States. Most people with healthy immune systems recover completely with proper treatment, but the infection can be more serious in people with weakened immune systems, the elderly, or those without a spleen. This diagnostic code indicates that babesiosis has been identified through laboratory testing or clinical examination.
Additional Information
Treatment typically involves antibiotics such as atovaquone plus azithromycin or clindamycin plus quinine. Prevention focuses on avoiding tick bites through protective clothing, repellents, and prompt tick removal. Co-infection with Lyme disease is possible since both are transmitted by the same tick species.
Category
Infectious Disease
Medical Specialty
Infectious Disease, Internal Medicine, Family Medicine
Expected Costs
Your actual cost will depend on your insurance coverage, provider location, and specific circumstances.
What's Required Before This
- Tick exposure history
- Compatible symptoms
- Laboratory confirmation
What to Expect After
- Complete prescribed antibiotic course
- Monitor symptoms during treatment
- Follow-up blood tests if severe
- Tick prevention education
Why Understanding This Code Matters
On Your Medical Bill
This code appears on your medical bills to identify the specific service, procedure, drug, or medical diagnosis you received. Understanding what it means helps you verify you're being charged correctly and know what to expect.
For Your Health
Knowing what this code represents helps you understand your treatment plan, ask better questions during appointments, and track your healthcare journey more effectively.
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