Whooping cough due to Bordetella pertussis with pneumonia

This code identifies whooping cough, also known as pertussis, specifically caused by the bacterium Bordetella pertussis, when the patient also presents with pneumonia. It signifies a severe manifestation of pertussis where the respiratory infection has progressed to involve the lungs.

Apply this code when documentation clearly indicates a diagnosis of pertussis due to Bordetella pertussis and a co-occurring pneumonia. This is typically supported by positive bacterial cultures, PCR testing, or serology for B. pertussis, alongside clinical and radiological evidence of pneumonia.

• Ensure the documentation explicitly links the pneumonia to the pertussis infection.
• Do not use this code if the pneumonia is due to a different etiology, even if pertussis is also present.
• Sequence this code as the primary diagnosis when it is the reason for the encounter, followed by codes for any other significant co-morbidities.