Salmonella sepsis

This code signifies a severe, life-threatening systemic infection caused by Salmonella bacteria, characterized by the presence of Salmonella in the bloodstream and evidence of organ dysfunction. It represents the most severe manifestation of salmonellosis, extending beyond localized gastrointestinal infection.

Apply this code when documentation clearly indicates a diagnosis of sepsis specifically attributed to Salmonella infection, often confirmed by positive blood cultures for Salmonella species. Supporting clinical findings include fever, hypotension, altered mental status, and evidence of acute organ failure (e.g., acute kidney injury, respiratory failure) in the context of a Salmonella infection.

• Always sequence this code as the principal diagnosis when it is the reason for the encounter.
• Concurrently code any associated organ dysfunction (e.g., acute kidney failure, septic shock) as secondary diagnoses.
• Distinguish from localized Salmonella gastroenteritis (A02.0) or other specified Salmonella infections (A02.2x) which do not involve systemic inflammatory response syndrome (SIRS) and organ dysfunction.