Melioidosis

This code represents melioidosis, a serious infectious disease caused by the bacterium Burkholderia pseudomallei. It is characterized by a wide range of clinical manifestations, from localized skin infections to severe pneumonia, sepsis, and disseminated abscesses affecting multiple organs. The disease can be acute, subacute, or chronic, and often presents with fever, cough, and respiratory distress.

Use this code when documentation confirms a diagnosis of melioidosis, typically following laboratory isolation of B. pseudomallei from blood, sputum, urine, or abscess aspirates. It is appropriate for both acute and chronic presentations of the infection. Supporting documentation should detail the clinical findings, diagnostic tests performed, and the confirmed causative organism.

• Ensure documentation specifies the confirmed diagnosis of melioidosis, not just suspected infection.
• Code any associated manifestations or complications (e.g., pneumonia, sepsis, abscesses) as secondary diagnoses.
• Be aware that melioidosis is endemic in tropical and subtropical regions, particularly Southeast Asia and Northern Australia; patient travel history may be relevant.