Foodborne Bacillus cereus intoxication

This code identifies an illness caused by ingesting toxins produced by the bacterium Bacillus cereus in contaminated food. Patients typically present with either an emetic (vomiting) or diarrheal syndrome, depending on the specific toxins involved. Symptoms are generally acute and self-limiting.

Assign this code when documentation confirms a diagnosis of food poisoning specifically attributed to Bacillus cereus. This typically follows laboratory confirmation of the organism or its toxins in food or patient samples, or a strong epidemiological link to a known outbreak.

• Do not use for general food poisoning without specific identification of Bacillus cereus.
• Consider additional codes for specific symptoms (e.g., vomiting, diarrhea) if they are significant and treated.
• Ensure documentation clearly links the intoxication to foodborne transmission.