Infant botulism

This code represents a specific form of botulism affecting infants, typically under one year of age, caused by the ingestion of Clostridium botulinum spores. These spores germinate in the infant's immature gut, producing toxins that lead to flaccid paralysis. Symptoms often include constipation, lethargy, poor feeding, and a weak cry.

Use this code when documentation clearly indicates a diagnosis of infant botulism, often confirmed by laboratory identification of C. botulinum toxin or organisms in stool. This diagnosis is typically made in infants presenting with progressive weakness, hypotonia, and cranial nerve palsies.

• Differentiate from other forms of botulism (e.g., foodborne, wound) which have distinct codes.
• Ensure documentation specifies "infant" botulism to support this specific code.
• Consider sequencing this code as the primary diagnosis when it is the reason for the encounter.