Cholera, unspecified

This code represents an acute, severe diarrheal disease caused by the bacterium Vibrio cholerae, where the specific type or strain of cholera is not documented. It is characterized by profuse watery diarrhea, vomiting, and rapid dehydration, potentially leading to hypovolemic shock and death if untreated.

This code is appropriate when a definitive diagnosis of cholera has been established, but the medical record lacks specificity regarding the particular Vibrio cholerae serogroup or other differentiating characteristics. It should be used when the documentation simply states "cholera" without further detail.

• Always seek clarification from the provider if the specific type of cholera is not documented, as more specific codes may be available.
• Do not use this code if the documentation specifies a particular Vibrio cholerae serogroup (e.g., O1 or O139), as more specific codes exist within the A00 category.
• Code any associated manifestations or complications of cholera, such as dehydration (E86.0), in addition to this code.