2025 ICD-10-CM code A20.3

Plague meningitis. This is a serious bacterial infection causing inflammation of the protective membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord.

Use additional code to identify resistance to antimicrobial drugs (Z16.-).Excludes1: certain localized infections - see body system-related chapters.Excludes2: carrier or suspected carrier of infectious disease (Z22.-) infectious and parasitic diseases complicating pregnancy, childbirth and the puerperium (O98.-) infectious and parasitic diseases specific to the perinatal period (P35-P39) influenza and other acute respiratory infections (J00-J22)

Medical necessity for the diagnosis and treatment of plague meningitis is established by the presence of clinical signs and symptoms consistent with the condition, along with laboratory confirmation of Yersinia pestis infection. Public health reporting is mandatory.

Plague meningitis is primarily seen in children. Symptoms can include severe headache, fever, chills, body aches, and fatigue. Severe cases can lead to weakness, coma, and even death. Diagnosis involves laboratory testing of blood, sputum, or pus. Treatment includes antibiotics, and hospitalization may be required for severe cases.

In simple words: Plague meningitis is a serious brain infection caused by bacteria. It is spread through infected fleas, contaminated fluids, or breathing in the bacteria.

Plague meningitis is caused by the bacterium Yersinia pestis entering the brain through the bloodstream.Y. pestis is typically acquired through the bite of infected fleas, contact with contaminated fluid or tissue, or inhaling airborne infectious droplets.

Example 1: A child presents with high fever, severe headache, stiff neck, and altered mental status after being bitten by fleas while camping in a known plague-endemic area. Laboratory tests confirm Yersinia pestis infection., A lab technician develops plague meningitis after accidentally inhaling aerosolized Yersinia pestis while working with infected samples. , A hunter develops plague meningitis after handling an infected rabbit carcass without proper protective gear.

Documentation should include signs and symptoms, exposure history (e.g., flea bites, contact with infected animals), laboratory findings confirming Yersinia pestis infection (e.g., blood cultures, cerebrospinal fluid analysis), and treatment provided.

  • Payment Status: Active
  • Specialties:Infectious Disease, Pediatrics, Emergency Medicine
  • Place of Service:Inpatient Hospital, Emergency Room - Hospital
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