Blastomycotic meningoencephalitis

This code signifies a central nervous system infection caused by the dimorphic fungus Blastomyces dermatitidis, specifically affecting both the meninges and brain tissue. It represents a severe manifestation of blastomycosis with neurological involvement.

Use this code when documentation confirms blastomycosis affecting the brain and its surrounding membranes. This typically involves a definitive diagnosis through fungal culture, histopathology, or molecular testing from cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) or brain biopsy, along with clinical signs and symptoms of meningoencephalitis.

• Ensure documentation explicitly states both meningeal and encephalitic involvement due to Blastomyces.
• Do not confuse with other fungal meningoencephalitis codes; confirm the specific causative organism.
• Sequence this code as the primary diagnosis when it is the reason for the encounter.