Encephalitis, myelitis, and encephalomyelitis in rickettsial diseases classified elsewhere

This code signifies inflammation of the brain (encephalitis), spinal cord (myelitis), or both (encephalomyelitis) that arises as a complication of a rickettsial infection. It indicates neurological involvement directly attributable to a rickettsial pathogen.

Use this code when documentation clearly links a patient's encephalitis, myelitis, or encephalomyelitis to an underlying rickettsial disease, such as Rocky Mountain spotted fever or typhus. The physician's notes should specify both the neurological manifestation and the rickettsial etiology.

• Always code the underlying rickettsial disease first, as this code is for a manifestation "classified elsewhere."
• Ensure documentation explicitly states the causal link between the rickettsial infection and the neurological inflammation.
• Do not use for encephalitis/myelitis due to other infectious agents; confirm rickettsial origin.