Gastrointestinal anthrax

This code represents a severe form of anthrax infection primarily affecting the gastrointestinal tract. It occurs when Bacillus anthracis spores are ingested, leading to ulceration, hemorrhage, and edema throughout the GI system, often resulting in systemic illness.

Use this code for patients diagnosed with anthrax presenting with symptoms such as severe abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, bloody diarrhea, and ascites, following suspected or confirmed ingestion of anthrax spores. Documentation should clearly indicate GI involvement and a confirmed or highly suspected anthrax infection.

• Differentiate from cutaneous or inhalational anthrax; this code is specific to GI involvement.
• Ensure documentation specifies the route of infection (ingestion) if known, to support the GI manifestation.
• Consider sequencing this code as the primary diagnosis when it is the reason for the encounter, followed by codes for associated complications.