Enterohemorrhagic Escherichia coli infection

This code signifies an infection caused by enterohemorrhagic Escherichia coli (EHEC), a specific strain of E. coli that produces Shiga toxins. This infection typically manifests as severe, often bloody, diarrhea and can lead to serious complications like hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS).

Assign this code when documentation confirms a diagnosis of EHEC infection, often identified through stool culture or PCR testing for Shiga toxin genes. This applies to cases presenting with acute gastroenteritis, particularly with bloody stools, where EHEC is the identified causative agent.

• Do not confuse with other E. coli infections (e.g., enteropathogenic, enterotoxigenic) unless EHEC is specifically documented.
• Code any associated complications, such as hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS), separately and sequence appropriately.
• Ensure the medical record clearly specifies "enterohemorrhagic E. coli" or "Shiga toxin-producing E. coli" (STEC) for accurate code assignment.