Mycobacterial infection, unspecified

This code signifies an infection caused by mycobacteria when the specific type of mycobacterium is not identified in the medical record. It indicates the presence of a mycobacterial disease without further specification of the causative organism, such as Mycobacterium tuberculosis or non-tuberculous mycobacteria (NTM).

This code is appropriate when a diagnosis of mycobacterial infection is confirmed, but the physician documentation does not specify the particular species. It can be used when laboratory results indicate mycobacterial growth, but further identification is pending or not performed. Documentation should clearly state "mycobacterial infection, unspecified" or similar.

• Avoid using this code if the specific mycobacterial species (e.g., tuberculosis, Mycobacterium avium complex) is documented; instead, code to the highest level of specificity.
• Query the provider for clarification if the documentation mentions "atypical mycobacteria" or "non-tuberculous mycobacteria" without further detail, as more specific codes may exist.
• This code should not be used for suspected mycobacterial infections without definitive diagnostic confirmation.