Anthrax septicemia

This code describes a severe, systemic form of anthrax infection characterized by the presence of Bacillus anthracis in the bloodstream. It represents a life-threatening complication of anthrax, often following cutaneous, inhalational, or gastrointestinal exposure, leading to widespread organ dysfunction and shock.

Assign this code for documented cases of anthrax with evidence of bacteremia or sepsis. This typically occurs in patients presenting with fever, chills, hypotension, and multi-organ involvement following exposure to anthrax spores. Documentation should clearly indicate a positive blood culture for B. anthracis or a clinical diagnosis of septicemia due to anthrax.

• Always sequence this code as the principal diagnosis when it is the reason for the encounter.
• Do not code a separate infection site (e.g., cutaneous anthrax) if septicemia is present, as the septicemia code encompasses the systemic nature.
• Ensure documentation specifies "septicemia" or "sepsis" due to anthrax, not just a localized infection.