Other specified rickettsioses

This code signifies a diagnosis of rickettsial infections that are not specifically classified elsewhere within the rickettsioses category. It encompasses various less common or atypical rickettsial diseases caused by bacteria transmitted by arthropod vectors, such as ticks, fleas, or lice. These infections can present with diverse symptoms including fever, headache, rash, and malaise.

Use this code when the medical record clearly documents a rickettsial infection that does not fit the descriptions of epidemic typhus, scrub typhus, Rocky Mountain spotted fever, or other more specific rickettsial diseases. Documentation should specify the type of rickettsial infection if known, or at least confirm a rickettsial etiology that is not otherwise classifiable.

• Ensure documentation specifies "other specified" rickettsiosis or a rickettsial infection not covered by more specific codes (080-083.0, 083.1, 083.2, 083.9).
• Avoid using this code if a more specific rickettsial diagnosis is documented, such as Rocky Mountain spotted fever (082.0) or scrub typhus (081.0).
• Query the provider if the documentation simply states "rickettsiosis" without further specificity, to determine if a more precise code can be assigned.