A18.84
Tuberculosis of heart
Clinical Classification Guidelines
Inclusion Terms
- Tuberculous cardiomyopathy
- Tuberculous endocarditis
- Tuberculous myocarditis
- Tuberculous pericarditis
Medical Intelligence & Overview
Tuberculosis of the heart, also known as tuberculous cardiomyopathy, is a rare but serious condition caused by the infection of the heart tissues with *Mycobacterium tuberculosis*. This condition encompasses various forms of cardiac involvement, including tuberculous endocarditis, myocarditis, and pericarditis. It can affect different parts of the heart and may lead to severe complications if not diagnosed and managed properly.
Causes & Symptoms
Clinical Causes: Primary infection from *Mycobacterium tuberculosis* spreading through the bloodstream or lymphatic system Tuberculosis originating in the lungs or other parts of the body and metastasizing to the heart Contiguous spread from adjacent infected tissues, such as the pericardium Reactivation of latent tuberculosis infection within heart tissues
Key Symptoms: Chest pain or discomfort Shortness of breath, especially during exertion Palpitations or irregular heartbeat Fatigue and weakness Fever and night sweats Swelling in the legs or abdomen due to fluid buildup Persistent cough or cough with blood in advanced cases
Diagnostic & Treatment
Diagnosis Path: Medical history review and physical examination Chest X-ray and imaging scans such as echocardiogram to assess heart function Blood tests to identify markers of infection and inflammation Tuberculin skin test or interferon-gamma release assays for tuberculosis exposure Cardiac MRI or CT scan for detailed tissue visualization Endomyocardial biopsy to confirm the presence of tuberculosis bacteria within heart tissues Microbiological cultures from blood or tissue samples
Treatment Protocols: Multiple antitubercular medications, typically over a prolonged period (6-12 months), including drugs like isoniazid, rifampicin, ethambutol, and pyrazinamide Supportive care to address heart-related symptoms, such as medications for heart failure or arrhythmias Monitoring for potential drug side effects and adjusting therapy accordingly In severe or complicated cases, surgical intervention may be necessary to repair damaged heart tissues or drain effusions Regular follow-up with healthcare providers to assess treatment efficacy and prevent relapse
Clinical Advice & FAQs
Billing Guidance
Is A18.84 a billable ICD-10 code?
Yes, A18.84 is a specific, billable code that can be used to indicate a diagnosis for reimbursement purposes.
Documentation
How do I report A18.84?
Clinical documentation must specify the nature of Tuberculosis of heart and any associated comorbidities for accurate reporting.
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