Glanders

This code represents Glanders, a rare and often fatal infectious disease primarily affecting equids (horses, mules, donkeys) but transmissible to humans. It is caused by the bacterium Burkholderia mallei and can manifest in various forms, including localized cutaneous lesions, pulmonary disease, or a rapidly progressive septicemic illness.

Use this code when documenting a confirmed diagnosis of Glanders in a human patient. This typically occurs in individuals with occupational exposure to infected animals or laboratory workers handling the pathogen. Documentation should clearly indicate the diagnostic findings, such as bacterial culture or serology.

• Glanders is a reportable disease; ensure public health reporting requirements are met.
• Distinguish from Melioidosis (caused by Burkholderia pseudomallei), which has similar clinical presentations but is a distinct organism.
• Look for documentation of exposure history, travel, and specific laboratory confirmation of Burkholderia mallei.