Pneumonia due to Pseudomonas

This code identifies pneumonia specifically caused by Pseudomonas aeruginosa, a common gram-negative bacterium. This type of pneumonia is often severe, particularly in hospitalized or immunocompromised patients, and can lead to significant morbidity and mortality.

Use this code when documentation clearly states pneumonia and laboratory results or clinical assessment confirm Pseudomonas as the causative organism. This is frequently seen in ventilator-associated pneumonia (VAP), healthcare-associated pneumonia (HCAP), or in patients with cystic fibrosis.

• Always confirm the specific bacterial etiology; do not assume Pseudomonas without explicit documentation.
• Consider an additional code for the underlying condition (e.g., cystic fibrosis, immunocompromised state) if applicable.
• Distinguish from other bacterial pneumonias; ensure Pseudomonas is definitively identified.