Waterhouse-Friderichsen syndrome, meningococcal

This code represents Waterhouse-Friderichsen syndrome specifically when caused by meningococcal infection. It describes a severe, acute adrenal insufficiency due to bilateral adrenal hemorrhage, often accompanied by purpura and shock, as a complication of meningococcal sepsis.

Use this code when documentation clearly indicates Waterhouse-Friderichsen syndrome with a confirmed meningococcal etiology. This diagnosis is typically supported by findings of adrenal hemorrhage, purpuric rash, and evidence of Neisseria meningitidis infection in a critically ill patient.

• Ensure the documentation specifies meningococcal as the causative agent; otherwise, a more general code for Waterhouse-Friderichsen syndrome may be appropriate.
• Code the underlying meningococcal infection (e.g., meningitis, septicemia) as the primary diagnosis, with Waterhouse-Friderichsen syndrome as a secondary diagnosis.
• Look for documentation of adrenal hemorrhage, acute adrenal insufficiency, and septic shock to support this diagnosis.