ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code A21.8:Other forms of tularemia

A21.8 is a billable and specific ICD-10-CM code. Accurate documentation of A21.8 facilitates proper diagnosis, effective management, and correct reimbursement.

This guideline will provide the use, official coding guidelines, and historical background of A21.8.

What is the ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code for Other forms of tularemia?

The ICD-10-CM diagnosis code for Other forms of tularemia is A21.8.

Tularemia is a rare but serious infectious disease caused by the bacterium Francisella tularensis. It is often transmitted to humans through tick or deer fly bites, contact with infected animals, or contaminated food, water, or air.

Other forms of tularemia refer to rare or less common types that do not fit into the main categories. These may include typhoidal tularemia or infections in unusual body parts.

Symptoms vary and may include fever, weakness, sore throat, stomach pain, or body aches. The cause is infection with Francisella tularensis, often through insect bites, animal contact, or contaminated food or water.

These forms may not show typical signs like ulcers or swollen lymph nodes. Diagnosis is done through lab tests and clinical evaluation.

Treatment includes antibiotics such as streptomycin, gentamicin, or doxycycline. Early treatment helps prevent serious illness and supports full recovery.

Proper documentation using A21.8 ensures patients receive appropriate care and enables accurate healthcare reimbursement.

History Background of ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code A21.8

The ICD-9-CM system, first introduced in 1979, provided the initial framework for coding diseases and health-related conditions in the United States.

The ICD-9-CM diagnosis code for Other forms of tularemia was 021.8.This coding remained consistent from 1979 to 2015.

While the ICD-9-CM system offered a basic approach to disease classification, modern healthcare needs more detail and specificity.

To address this, the ICD-10-CM system was launched in 2015, introducing a more comprehensive and accurate coding structure.

The transition from ICD-9-CM to ICD-10-CM significantly improved the ability to document and analyze conditions such as Other forms of tularemia.

The 2025 edition of ICD-10-CM A21.8 became effective on October 1, 2024.

Year	ICD-10-CM Code	Description
2020	A21.8	No Change
2021	A21.8	No Change
2022	A21.8	No Change
2023	A21.8	No Change
2024	A21.8	No Change
2025	A21.8	No Change

Other ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Codes in A21

ICD-10-CM code A21 | Tularemia has following sub categories including A21.8 :

A21 Tularemia.
A21.0 Ulceroglandular tularemia
A21.1 Oculoglandular tularemia
A21.2 Pulmonary tularemia
A21.3 Gastrointestinal tularemia
A21.7 Generalized tularemia
A21.8 Other forms of tularemia
A21.9 Tularemia, unspecified

Final Thoughts

Accurate coding of A21.8 is crucial for diagnosing and managing other forms of tularemia. Understanding its history and correct usage improves medical documentation, ensures effective treatment and patient care, supports healthcare planning, and secures appropriate reimbursement for services.

Dr. Sehrish Bano, CPB & CPC

As a certified professional in both billing and coding, I specialize in streamlining healthcare revenue cycles and ensuring accurate claim submissions. With more than five years of experience serving the healthcare industry in the USA, I bring expertise in coding accuracy, compliance, and reimbursement optimization. My work focuses on reducing errors, improving efficiency, and supporting providers in delivering quality care without administrative hurdles. I am committed to helping healthcare organizations achieve financial stability and compliance through reliable billing and coding practices.