Streptococcal septicemia

This code signifies a severe, life-threatening systemic infection caused by Streptococcus bacteria. It represents the presence of streptococci in the bloodstream, leading to a widespread inflammatory response throughout the body. This condition can rapidly progress to organ dysfunction and septic shock.

Use this code when documentation clearly indicates a diagnosis of septicemia specifically attributed to a streptococcal organism. This typically requires positive blood cultures identifying Streptococcus as the causative agent, along with clinical signs and symptoms of sepsis. It should be assigned when the infection has spread beyond a localized site into the bloodstream.

• Always confirm the specific bacterial etiology through laboratory results (e.g., blood cultures) before assigning this code.
• Distinguish from localized streptococcal infections (e.g., cellulitis, pharyngitis) that have not progressed to systemic septicemia.
• Sequence this code as the principal diagnosis when it is the primary reason for the admission, followed by codes for any associated organ dysfunction or septic shock.