A86

What This Code Means

This code describes inflammation of the brain caused by a virus when the specific virus has not been identified or documented. It's used when a patient has symptoms of viral brain inflammation but testing hasn't determined which virus is responsible.

Coding Tips

• •Use this code only when the specific viral cause cannot be determined; if the virus is identified (such as HSV, West Nile, or enterovirus), use the more specific code instead
• •Ensure documentation supports encephalitis diagnosis (not just meningitis or other CNS conditions) and that viral etiology is confirmed or strongly suspected before coding