In simple words: This code signifies a localized infection caused by Salmonella bacteria, but the specific location of the infection is not specified in the medical record.

Salmonella infection refers to a foodborne illness typically acquired from eating undercooked meat and eggs or unwashed fruit and vegetables contaminated by a bacteria from the Salmonella family. The salmonella bacteria colonize in particular organ or area causing a localized abscess or infection; however, the provider does not document the specific site of infection.

Example 1: A patient presents with fever, abdominal cramping, and diarrhea. Stool cultures confirm Salmonella infection, but no specific organ or site is identified as the primary source., A patient with a history of abdominal pain is admitted to the hospital for fever and dehydration. Blood cultures reveal Salmonella, but imaging studies do not localize the infection to a specific organ., A patient recovering from Salmonella gastroenteritis develops persistent fever. Further investigation reveals ongoing Salmonella infection, but the exact location of the infection remains undetermined.

Documentation should include signs and symptoms, laboratory findings confirming Salmonella infection (e.g., positive stool or blood culture), and any attempts to localize the infection (e.g., imaging studies). If the infection is localized to a specific site, a more specific code should be used (e.g., A02.21 for Salmonella meningitis).