Intracranial abscess and granuloma

This code represents a localized collection of pus or inflammatory tissue within the cranial cavity, not caused by tuberculosis. These lesions can occur in the brain parenchyma, epidural, or subdural spaces, leading to neurological deficits.

Assign this code for patients diagnosed with a non-tuberculous intracranial abscess or granuloma, such as those resulting from bacterial, fungal, or parasitic infections. Documentation should clearly state the presence of an intracranial abscess or granuloma and explicitly rule out a tuberculous etiology.

• Always review documentation to confirm the infectious agent if specified, as this may lead to additional codes.
• Carefully differentiate from tuberculous intracranial abscess (A17.81) due to the Excludes1 note.
• Consider sequencing this code as the primary diagnosis when it is the reason for the encounter, followed by codes for any associated neurological complications.