Bacterial meningitis, unspecified

This code represents an acute inflammation of the meninges, the protective membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord, caused by a bacterial infection, where the specific type of bacteria is not identified. It signifies a serious infection requiring prompt medical attention due to potential neurological complications.

Use this code when the medical record clearly documents a diagnosis of bacterial meningitis, but the causative organism has not been determined or is not specified. This often occurs when treatment is initiated empirically before culture results are available, or if cultures are negative but clinical evidence strongly suggests a bacterial etiology.

• Do not use this code if the specific bacterial organism is identified; instead, code to the more specific bacterial meningitis codes (e.g., G00.0 for Hemophilus meningitis).
• Always review the entire medical record for documentation of the specific pathogen. If identified later, update the code to reflect the confirmed etiology.
• Consider sequencing this code as the primary diagnosis when it is the reason for the encounter and treatment.