Infection with microorganisms resistant to cephalosporins and other B-lactam antibiotics

This code identifies an infection caused by bacteria that have developed resistance to cephalosporin antibiotics, as well as other beta-lactam antibiotics like penicillins. This resistance makes standard antibiotic treatments ineffective, often requiring alternative and more potent antimicrobial therapies.

Apply this code when documentation explicitly states an infection is resistant to cephalosporins and other beta-lactam antibiotics. This is commonly seen in cases of hospital-acquired infections, recurrent infections, or infections in patients with a history of extensive antibiotic exposure.

• Ensure the medical record clearly specifies resistance to both cephalosporins and other beta-lactam antibiotics.
• Do not use this code if resistance is only noted for cephalosporins or only for other beta-lactams; a more specific code may be available.
• Always sequence this code as a secondary diagnosis, following the code for the specific infection being treated.