Diphtheria, unspecified

This code represents an acute, highly contagious bacterial infection caused by Corynebacterium diphtheriae, characterized by a thick pseudomembrane formation, typically in the throat or nasal passages. The infection can lead to respiratory obstruction, myocarditis, and neurological complications due to toxin production. This specific code is used when the type or location of diphtheria is not further specified.

Use this code when the medical record clearly documents a diagnosis of diphtheria, but lacks specific details regarding the clinical manifestation (e.g., cutaneous, pharyngeal, nasal, laryngeal) or the causative organism's specific strain. Documentation should confirm the presence of diphtheria without further elaboration on its presentation.

• Avoid using this code if the documentation specifies the anatomical site of the diphtheria infection; instead, use a more specific code from the A36 category.
• Ensure the medical record confirms a definitive diagnosis of diphtheria, not merely suspected exposure or carrier status.
• Consider sequencing this code as the primary diagnosis when diphtheria is the principal reason for the encounter.