Mixed malaria

This code signifies a malaria infection caused by more than one species of Plasmodium parasite simultaneously. This typically involves co-infection with Plasmodium falciparum and another species, such as P. vivax or P. ovale. Patients may present with a combination of symptoms characteristic of each infecting species.

Use this code when diagnostic testing confirms the presence of multiple Plasmodium species in a single patient. Documentation should clearly state the identification of at least two distinct Plasmodium species, often through microscopy or molecular methods. This code is appropriate for initial diagnosis and subsequent encounters for the same mixed infection.

• Ensure documentation explicitly identifies the specific Plasmodium species involved in the mixed infection if known, though this code does not require it.
• Do not use this code if only one Plasmodium species is identified, even if the patient has a history of other malaria types.
• Consider sequencing this code as the primary diagnosis if it is the reason for the encounter, followed by codes for any associated complications.