A18.2
Tuberculous peripheral lymphadenopathy
Clinical Classification Guidelines
Inclusion Terms
- Tuberculous adenitis
Excludes Type 2
- tuberculosis of bronchial and mediastinal lymph nodes (A15.4)
- tuberculosis of mesenteric and retroperitoneal lymph nodes (A18.39)
- tuberculous tracheobronchial adenopathy (A15.4)
Medical Intelligence & Overview
Tuberculous peripheral lymphadenopathy, also known as tuberculous adenitis, is a form of tuberculosis that primarily affects the lymph nodes outside of the lungs. It commonly involves the lymph nodes in regions such as the neck, armpits, or groin. This condition occurs when Mycobacterium tuberculosis infects these lymph nodes, leading to inflammation and swelling. Recognizing this disease is essential for timely diagnosis and management, especially in areas where tuberculosis is prevalent.
Causes & Symptoms
Clinical Causes: Infection with Mycobacterium tuberculosis bacteria Spread from a primary tuberculosis site, such as the lungs Transmission through inhalation of airborne droplets containing the bacteria Less commonly, spread through direct contact or contaminated materials Compromised immune system increasing susceptibility
Key Symptoms: Swelling or noticeable enlargement of affected lymph nodes Lump or mass that is often painless but may become tender over time Redness or skin changes over the swollen lymph node Possible skin ulceration if the lymph node ruptures General symptoms such as low-grade fever, night sweats, and fatigue in some cases Weight loss and loss of appetite may occur in advanced stages
Diagnostic & Treatment
Diagnosis Path: Diagnosis typically involves a combination of medical history, physical examination, and laboratory tests. Healthcare providers may perform fine-needle aspiration or biopsy to obtain tissue samples for microscopic examination and culture. Imaging studies, like ultrasound or CT scans, can help evaluate the extent of lymph node involvement. Tuberculin skin testing (Mantoux test) or interferon-gamma release assays (IGRAs) may be used to assess exposure to tuberculosis bacteria.
Treatment Protocols: Treatment involves a prolonged course of multiple antibiotics effective against Mycobacterium tuberculosis. The standard therapy usually lasts at least six months and may include medications such as isoniazid, rifampin, ethambutol, and pyrazinamide. In some cases, surgical intervention may be necessary to remove abscesses or affected lymph nodes. Adherence to the prescribed drug regimen is crucial for successful outcomes and preventing drug resistance.
Clinical Advice & FAQs
Billing Guidance
Is A18.2 a billable ICD-10 code?
Yes, A18.2 is a specific, billable code that can be used to indicate a diagnosis for reimbursement purposes.
Documentation
How do I report A18.2?
Clinical documentation must specify the nature of Tuberculous peripheral lymphadenopathy and any associated comorbidities for accurate reporting.
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