Salmonella septicemia

This code represents a severe, systemic infection caused by Salmonella bacteria that has spread to the bloodstream. It signifies a life-threatening condition where Salmonella is isolated from blood cultures, indicating bacteremia with clinical signs of sepsis.

Apply this code when documentation confirms a diagnosis of salmonella septicemia, typically supported by positive blood cultures for Salmonella species and clinical indicators of sepsis. This code is appropriate for patients presenting with fever, chills, hypotension, and other signs of systemic inflammatory response syndrome (SIRS) due to Salmonella.

• Always sequence this code as the principal diagnosis when it is the primary reason for the encounter.
• Do not use this code for localized Salmonella infections (e.g., gastroenteritis) without evidence of bloodstream involvement.
• Ensure documentation clearly distinguishes septicemia from bacteremia without systemic signs of infection.