Trench fever

This code identifies Trench fever, an acute louse-borne rickettsial infection caused by Bartonella quintana. It is characterized by recurrent fever, headache, bone pain (especially in the shins), and splenomegaly. The disease typically presents with sudden onset and can have a relapsing course.

Assign this code when documentation explicitly states a diagnosis of Trench fever. This diagnosis is often made based on clinical presentation in endemic areas or historical context, confirmed by serology or PCR. Ensure the medical record clearly supports the infectious agent and clinical manifestations.

• Differentiate from other rickettsial infections; Trench fever is specifically Bartonella quintana.
• Confirm the diagnosis is definitively established, not merely suspected, before assigning this code.
• Review for any associated complications or sequelae that may require additional coding.