Smallpox (B03)
The ICD-10 code B03 is used specifically to identify cases of smallpox, a serious viral infection formerly widespread but now eradicated. This code captures all forms and variations of smallpox documented in medical records.
B03 covers smallpox under various names, including common synonyms like Variola major, hemorrhagic smallpox, and flat-type smallpox. It also includes less typical presentations such as modified smallpox, Alastrim, and smallpox without rash. By using the ICD-10 code for smallpox, healthcare professionals and medical coders accurately document this specific viral infection, distinguishing it from other pox-related or rash-causing diseases. This precise classification supports clear communication in healthcare records and epidemiologic tracking when dealing with any suspected or diagnosed cases of smallpox.
Instructional Notations
- In 1980 the 33rd World Health Assembly declared that smallpox had been eradicated.
- The classification is maintained for surveillance purposes.
Clinical Terms
The following clinical terms provide additional context, helping users better understand the clinical background and common associations for each diagnosis listed in this section. Including related terms alongside ICD-10-CM codes supports coders, billers, and healthcare professionals in improving accuracy, enhancing documentation, and facilitating research or patient education.
Orthopoxvirus
A genus of the family POXVIRIDAE, subfamily CHORDOPOXVIRINAE, comprising many species infecting mammals. Viruses of this genus cause generalized infections and a rash in some hosts. The type species is VACCINIA VIRUS.
Smallpox
An acute, highly contagious, often fatal infectious disease caused by an orthopoxvirus characterized by a biphasic febrile course and distinctive progressive skin eruptions. Vaccination has succeeded in eradicating smallpox worldwide. (Dorland, 28th ed)
Smallpox Vaccine
A VACCINIA VIRUS vaccine used for immunization against SMALLPOX. It is now recommended only for laboratory workers exposed to SMALLPOX VIRUS. Certain countries continue to vaccinate those in the military service. Rare complications most often associated with older generation smallpox vaccines include VACCINIA, secondary bacterial infections, and ENCEPHALOMYELITIS. Because MONKEYPOX VIRUS and SMALLPOX VIRUS are both ORTHOPOXVIRUS and are closely related smallpox vaccines provide effective CROSS-PROTECTION against MPOX, MONKEYPOX (https://www.cdc.gov/poxvirus/monkeypox/clinicians/smallpox-vaccine.html).
Variola virus
A species of ORTHOPOXVIRUS causing infections in humans. No infections have been reported since 1977 and the virus is now believed to be virtually extinct.
