Unspecified septicemia

This code signifies a severe, life-threatening systemic infection (sepsis) where the specific causative microorganism has not been identified. It indicates the presence of bacteria or other pathogens in the bloodstream, leading to a widespread inflammatory response.

This code is appropriate when a patient presents with clinical signs and symptoms of sepsis, and laboratory cultures (e.g., blood cultures) are either pending, negative, or inconclusive for a specific pathogen. Documentation should clearly state a diagnosis of septicemia without further specification of the organism.

• Avoid using this code if a specific organism is identified; instead, code to the specific type of septicemia (e.g., staphylococcal, streptococcal).
• Always sequence this code as the principal diagnosis when it is the reason for admission, unless another condition is clearly identified as the underlying cause of the sepsis.
• Review the entire medical record for any mention of a specific organism before defaulting to this unspecified code.