Blackwater fever

This code represents Blackwater fever, a severe and often fatal complication of Plasmodium falciparum malaria. It is characterized by massive intravascular hemolysis, leading to hemoglobinuria (dark, reddish-brown urine), acute kidney injury, and severe anemia.

Use this code when documentation explicitly states a diagnosis of Blackwater fever, typically in patients with a history of malaria exposure or recurrent malaria. Supporting documentation should detail the characteristic dark urine, signs of hemolysis, and evidence of renal impairment in the context of malaria.

• Ensure documentation clearly distinguishes Blackwater fever from other causes of hemoglobinuria or acute kidney injury.
• Always code the underlying Plasmodium falciparum malaria (e.g., 084.6) as the primary diagnosis, with Blackwater fever as a secondary complication.
• Do not confuse with other forms of severe malaria unless Blackwater fever is specifically diagnosed.