Meningococcal meningitis

This code identifies an acute bacterial infection of the meninges, specifically caused by Neisseria meningitidis. It results in inflammation of the membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord, often presenting with sudden onset of fever, headache, and nuchal rigidity.

Assign this code when documentation confirms a diagnosis of meningitis due to meningococcal infection. This diagnosis is typically supported by cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) analysis identifying Neisseria meningitidis or clinical signs and symptoms highly suggestive of meningococcal disease in an appropriate epidemiological context.

• Do not confuse with other forms of bacterial meningitis; confirm the causative organism.
• Always sequence as the primary diagnosis when it is the reason for the encounter.
• Look for documentation of laboratory confirmation (e.g., CSF culture, PCR) or strong clinical evidence.