Salmonella meningitis

This code signifies an infection of the meninges (membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord) caused by Salmonella bacteria. It is a severe form of salmonellosis that has disseminated to the central nervous system, leading to inflammation and neurological symptoms.

Apply this code when documentation explicitly states a diagnosis of meningitis due to Salmonella species. This typically occurs in cases where Salmonella has been identified in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) cultures or other diagnostic tests confirm its presence as the causative agent of meningitis.

• Always confirm the causative organism is Salmonella and not another bacterial species.
• Do not confuse with other forms of salmonellosis (e.g., enteritis) without CNS involvement.
• Sequence as the primary diagnosis when it is the reason for the encounter, followed by any associated neurological complications.