Quartan malaria

This code identifies an infection caused by the parasite Plasmodium malariae, characterized by a fever cycle that recurs approximately every 72 hours. Quartan malaria is a less common form of malaria, often associated with chronic, persistent infections and potential kidney complications.

Use this code when documentation explicitly states a diagnosis of quartan malaria, or malaria specifically identified as being caused by Plasmodium malariae. Supporting documentation should include laboratory confirmation of the parasite species or a definitive clinical diagnosis based on characteristic fever patterns and travel history to endemic areas.

• Differentiate carefully from other Plasmodium species infections; each has a specific ICD-9-CM code.
• Ensure the documentation specifies "quartan" or P. malariae to avoid miscoding with unspecified malaria or other forms.
• Consider sequencing with codes for any associated complications, such as nephrotic syndrome, if documented.