Brucellosis due to Brucella abortus

This diagnosis code identifies an infection caused specifically by the bacterium Brucella abortus. This form of brucellosis is a zoonotic disease, primarily affecting cattle, and can be transmitted to humans through contact with infected animals or consumption of unpasteurized dairy products. It typically presents with flu-like symptoms, fever, fatigue, and can lead to chronic complications if untreated.

Use this code when the provider's documentation explicitly states a diagnosis of brucellosis and specifies Brucella abortus as the causative organism. This is often confirmed through laboratory testing, such as blood cultures or serology. This code is appropriate for both acute and chronic presentations of Brucella abortus infection.

• Ensure the documentation clearly identifies Brucella abortus as the specific species; do not assume based on general brucellosis.
• Differentiate from other Brucella species (e.g., B. melitensis, B. suis) which have their own specific codes.
• Consider sequencing this code as the primary diagnosis if it is the reason for the encounter, or as a secondary diagnosis if it is a co-morbidity impacting treatment.