Candidal sepsis

This code signifies a severe, systemic infection caused by Candida species, characterized by the presence of Candida in the bloodstream and evidence of systemic inflammatory response syndrome (SIRS). It represents a life-threatening condition where the fungal infection has spread throughout the body, often leading to organ dysfunction.

Apply this code when documentation clearly indicates a diagnosis of sepsis due to Candida infection, supported by positive blood cultures for Candida and clinical signs of sepsis. This is typically seen in immunocompromised patients, those with indwelling catheters, or following extensive surgery.

• Always sequence this code as the principal diagnosis when candidal sepsis is the reason for admission.
• Ensure documentation specifies "sepsis" and "Candida" as the causative organism; "candidemia" alone is not sufficient for this code.
• Code any associated organ dysfunction (e.g., acute kidney failure, respiratory failure) as secondary diagnoses.