Unspecified viral meningitis

This code represents an inflammation of the meninges, the protective membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord, caused by a viral infection, where the specific viral etiology is not documented. Patients typically present with symptoms such as headache, fever, neck stiffness, and photophobia.

Use this code when the medical record clearly indicates a diagnosis of viral meningitis, but the specific type of virus responsible for the infection has not been identified or documented by the provider. This is appropriate when laboratory tests for viral identification are pending or inconclusive, or if the provider simply states "viral meningitis" without further specificity.

• Do not use if a specific viral agent (e.g., enterovirus, herpes simplex virus) is documented; instead, code to the specific viral meningitis.
• Always query the provider for greater specificity if possible, as more precise codes exist for known viral etiologies.
• Sequence as the primary diagnosis when it is the reason for the encounter.