Bacteroides fragilis [B. fragilis] as the cause of diseases classified elsewhere digital illustration

Bacteroides fragilis [B. fragilis] as the cause of diseases classified elsewhere Save

ICD-10 code: B96.6

Chapter: Certain infectious and parasitic diseases

Bacteroides fragilis [B. fragilis] as the cause of diseases classified elsewhere

Bacteroides fragilis, also known as B. fragilis, is a gram-negative anaerobic bacterium that is commonly found in the human intestinal tract. This bacterium is considered an opportunistic pathogen, meaning that it can cause infections in individuals with weakened immune systems or in those who have undergone surgery or other invasive medical procedures.

B. fragilis is known to cause a variety of infections, including abscesses, peritonitis, and sepsis. However, it is also a recognized cause of diseases that are classified elsewhere, such as meningitis, endocarditis, and pneumonia.

The mechanism by which B. fragilis causes disease is not fully understood, but it is thought to be related to the bacterium's ability to produce virulence factors. These factors are molecules that allow the bacterium to evade the host's immune system and colonize various tissues and organs in the body.

Diagnosis of B. fragilis infections can be challenging, as the bacterium is difficult to culture in the laboratory. However, newer diagnostic techniques that rely on molecular methods, such as PCR, have made it easier to detect the presence of B. fragilis in clinical specimens.

  1. Prevention of B. fragilis infections:
    • Proper hand hygiene
    • Use of prophylactic antibiotics in high-risk patients
    • Appropriate use of antibiotics to prevent the development of antibiotic-resistant strains of B. fragilis
  2. Treatment of B. fragilis infections:
    • Antibiotics that are effective against B. fragilis, such as metronidazole and carbapenems
    • Surgical drainage or debridement of abscesses, if present
    • Supportive care, such as intravenous fluids and oxygen therapy, for patients with severe infections

In conclusion, Bacteroides fragilis is an opportunistic pathogen that can cause a range of infections, including those that are classified elsewhere. Proper prevention and treatment strategies can help reduce the incidence and severity of B. fragilis infections.

Diagnosis Codes for Bacteroides fragilis [B. fragilis] as the cause of diseases classified elsewhere | B96.6

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