Actinomycotic encephalitis

This code represents a rare and serious infection of the brain caused by Actinomyces bacteria. It typically manifests as a brain abscess or meningoencephalitis, leading to neurological deficits. The infection often originates from a primary site elsewhere in the body, such as the oral cavity or lungs, and spreads hematogenously.

Use this code when documentation explicitly states a diagnosis of actinomycotic encephalitis or a brain abscess confirmed to be caused by Actinomyces species. This diagnosis is typically supported by microbiological culture results from brain tissue or cerebrospinal fluid, or characteristic imaging findings in a patient with a known Actinomyces infection.

• Ensure documentation specifies "actinomycotic" to differentiate from other forms of bacterial encephalitis.
• Code any underlying primary Actinomyces infection (e.g., pulmonary actinomycosis) as an additional diagnosis.
• Do not confuse with fungal encephalitis; Actinomyces are bacteria, not fungi.