Septicemia due to anaerobes

This code signifies a severe systemic infection, commonly known as blood poisoning, caused specifically by anaerobic bacteria. These bacteria thrive in environments lacking oxygen and can lead to life-threatening conditions if not promptly treated. The infection has spread throughout the bloodstream, causing a systemic inflammatory response.

Use this code when documentation explicitly states septicemia or sepsis and laboratory cultures confirm the presence of anaerobic organisms as the causative agent. This diagnosis typically arises in cases of severe infection originating from sites like the gastrointestinal tract, female genital tract, or deep tissue wounds.

• Requires definitive documentation of both septicemia/sepsis and the specific identification of anaerobic bacteria.
• Always sequence this code as the principal diagnosis when it meets the definition of the principal diagnosis, followed by codes for any localized infection or underlying condition.
• Distinguish carefully from septicemia due to other specified or unspecified organisms; specific anaerobic identification is crucial.