Meningoencephalitis due to Acanthamoeba (culbertsoni)

This diagnosis code represents an infection of both the brain and its surrounding membranes (meninges) caused by the Acanthamoeba species, specifically Acanthamoeba culbertsoni. This is a rare but severe parasitic infection that can lead to granulomatous amebic encephalitis (GAE).

Use this code when documentation confirms meningoencephalitis due to Acanthamoeba culbertsoni. This typically involves a definitive diagnosis through cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) analysis, brain biopsy, or advanced imaging showing characteristic lesions in a patient with a compatible clinical presentation.

• Ensure the documentation explicitly states Acanthamoeba culbertsoni as the causative agent; other amoebic infections have different codes.
• Do not confuse with primary amoebic meningoencephalitis (PAM) caused by Naegleria fowleri, which has a distinct code.
• Sequence this code as the primary diagnosis when it is the reason for the encounter.