A02.21

What This Code Means

This is a serious bacterial infection caused by Salmonella bacteria that affects the protective membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord. It typically causes fever, severe headache, and neck stiffness and requires immediate medical treatment with antibiotics.

Coding Tips

• •Ensure the documentation clearly states that meningitis is caused by Salmonella species before assigning this code; do not use if the causative organism is unconfirmed
• •This code is more specific than general meningitis codes and should be used when Salmonella is confirmed as the causative agent; verify the source of infection (food, water, or contact) is documented for complete clinical picture