Septicemic plague

This code represents a severe, systemic infection caused by the bacterium Yersinia pestis, characterized by the presence of the bacteria in the bloodstream. Septicemic plague can occur as a primary infection or as a complication of bubonic or pneumonic plague, leading to widespread organ damage and high mortality if untreated.

Use this code when documentation clearly indicates a diagnosis of septicemic plague, often supported by positive blood cultures for Yersinia pestis and systemic signs of infection without evidence of primary buboes or pneumonia. This diagnosis is typically made in patients presenting with fever, chills, abdominal pain, shock, and disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC).

• Ensure documentation specifies "septicemic" plague, as other forms exist.
• Do not confuse with other forms of plague (e.g., bubonic, pneumonic) unless septicemia is also explicitly documented.
• Code any associated manifestations, such as DIC or organ failure, as secondary diagnoses.