Unspecified malaria

This code represents a diagnosis of malaria where the specific species of Plasmodium parasite causing the infection has not been identified or documented. It indicates a confirmed malarial infection without further etiological detail.

Use this code when a patient presents with symptoms consistent with malaria, and laboratory testing confirms the presence of malarial parasites, but the specific species (e.g., falciparum, vivax) is not determined or recorded in the medical record. It is appropriate when documentation only states "malaria" without further specification.

• Avoid using this code if the specific Plasmodium species is documented; instead, code to the appropriate species-specific malaria code.
• Query the provider for clarification on the specific type of malaria if possible, to allow for more precise coding.
• This code should not be used for suspected malaria that has not been confirmed by laboratory findings.