Osseous cryptococcosis

This code represents a fungal infection of the bone caused by Cryptococcus species, primarily Cryptococcus neoformans or Cryptococcus gattii. It manifests as osteomyelitis or periostitis, often as a disseminated manifestation from a primary pulmonary or central nervous system infection.

Apply this code when documentation explicitly states cryptococcal osteomyelitis, cryptococcal periostitis, or cryptococcal infection of a specific bone. This diagnosis is typically supported by positive fungal cultures from bone biopsy, imaging findings consistent with osteomyelitis, and a history of cryptococcal infection elsewhere in the body.

• Always look for documentation specifying the anatomical site of the osseous involvement.
• Code any associated systemic cryptococcosis (e.g., pulmonary, CNS) in addition to this code.
• Do not confuse with other fungal osteomyelitis codes; ensure the pathogen is specifically identified as Cryptococcus.