Brucella canis

This code describes an infection caused by Brucella canis, a gram-negative bacterium primarily affecting canids but transmissible to humans (zoonotic). Human brucellosis from B. canis typically presents as a febrile illness with systemic symptoms, often involving the musculoskeletal, genitourinary, or central nervous systems.

Use this code when documentation explicitly identifies Brucella canis as the causative agent of brucellosis in a human patient. This diagnosis is typically confirmed through laboratory testing, such as blood cultures, serology, or PCR, following exposure to infected animals or contaminated animal products.

• Ensure the documentation specifies B. canis and not another Brucella species, as other species have distinct codes.
• Code any associated manifestations or complications of brucellosis (e.g., osteomyelitis, epididymitis) in addition to the primary infection.
• Consider an external cause code if the source of exposure (e.g., contact with infected dog) is documented.