Sepsis due to streptococcus, group A

This code signifies a severe, life-threatening systemic inflammatory response syndrome (SIRS) caused by an infection with Group A Streptococcus (GAS). It indicates the presence of both infection and systemic manifestations such as fever, tachycardia, tachypnea, or altered mental status.

Use this code when documentation clearly states sepsis and specifically identifies Group A Streptococcus as the causative organism. This typically occurs in patients presenting with signs of systemic infection and a confirmed or highly suspected GAS etiology, often supported by positive cultures or rapid strep tests.

• Always sequence the underlying infection (e.g., cellulitis, pharyngitis) first, if applicable, followed by this sepsis code.
• Do not use this code for localized GAS infections without evidence of systemic inflammatory response.
• Ensure documentation explicitly links the sepsis to Group A Streptococcus; "strep sepsis" without further specification may require query.