Cholera due to Vibrio cholerae 01, biovar eltor

This code identifies cholera specifically caused by the O1 serogroup of Vibrio cholerae, with the biotype El Tor. This is an acute, severe diarrheal disease characterized by profuse watery stools, leading to rapid dehydration and electrolyte imbalance.

Apply this code when documentation explicitly states a diagnosis of cholera and laboratory confirmation identifies Vibrio cholerae O1, biovar El Tor, as the causative agent. This is typically used in cases of confirmed outbreaks or individual infections where specific microbiological identification has been performed.

• Ensure documentation specifies both "O1" and "El Tor" for accurate coding; otherwise, a less specific cholera code may be appropriate.
• Do not use this code for cholera due to Vibrio cholerae O139 or other unspecified Vibrio cholerae types.
• Code any associated complications, such as severe dehydration, in addition to the cholera diagnosis.