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  5. Other and unspecified infectious diseases (B99)

Other and unspecified infectious diseases (B99)

The ICD-10 code B99 is used for diagnoses involving infectious diseases that do not fit into more specific categories, covering both other and unspecified infectious conditions. It includes subcodes like B99.8 for other infectious diseases caused by unusual organisms and B99.9 for unspecified infectious diseases when precise identification is not available.

The section labeled B99.8 addresses infections caused by rare or less common pathogens, such as those stemming from algae, plants, or specific Prototheca species, which are sometimes called protothecosis. This code assists coders in accurately classifying infections that don't fall under typical bacterial, viral, or parasitic diseases but still require medical recognition. Meanwhile, B99.9 covers a broad range of unspecified infectious diseases, often used when the infection is confirmed but lacks a definitive cause or detailed clinical classification. This includes a wide spectrum of infections from localized abscesses and cellulitis to infections of prosthetic devices and organs. By recognizing the ICD-10 code for other and unspecified infectious diseases, healthcare professionals and coders can ensure appropriate documentation when infections are difficult to categorize or involve uncommon pathogens.

Clinical Terms

The following clinical terms provide additional context, helping users better understand the clinical background and common associations for each diagnosis listed in this section. Including related terms alongside ICD-10-CM codes supports coders, billers, and healthcare professionals in improving accuracy, enhancing documentation, and facilitating research or patient education.

Cross Infection

Any infection which a patient contracts in a health-care institution.

Latent Infection

Delayed infection of the host by a dormant or inactive pathogen.

Mastectomy

Surgical procedure to remove one or both breasts.

Persistent Infection

Infection which lasts for a long period with continuous display of clinical features. Persistent infection arises due to inability of host cells to clear primary infections completely. When persistent infections are cleared so that infection symptoms are under control they are often referred to as chronic infections. LATENT INFECTIONS are infections in which manifestation of clinical symptoms appear later.

Seroma

Tumor-like sterile accumulation of serum in a tissue, organ, or cavity. It results from a tissue insult and is the product of tissue inflammation. It most commonly occurs following MASTECTOMY.