Brucellosis due to Brucella melitensis

This code identifies an infection caused specifically by the bacterium Brucella melitensis, a zoonotic disease primarily transmitted from sheep, goats, and camels to humans. Brucellosis can manifest with a variety of symptoms, including fever, sweats, malaise, arthralgia, and organ-specific complications.

Assign this code when documentation explicitly states a diagnosis of brucellosis and specifies Brucella melitensis as the causative agent. This often follows positive serological tests or bacterial cultures confirming the specific species. It is crucial to differentiate from other Brucella species.

• Ensure the medical record clearly identifies Brucella melitensis; do not assume the species if not documented.
• Code any associated manifestations or complications of brucellosis (e.g., osteomyelitis, endocarditis) in addition to this code.
• Distinguish from unspecified brucellosis (A23.9) or brucellosis due to other Brucella species.