ICD-10 Code B45 – Cryptococcosis (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code B45 – Cryptococcosis
What it is
Cryptococcosis is a fungal infection caused by Cryptococcus species. It most often affects the lungs or central nervous system and can be severe in people with weakened immunity.
Clinical signs
Clinical features vary; refer to documentation. Common findings include cough, fever, headache, neck stiffness, confusion, or other neurologic changes when the infection involves the brain or meninges.
When to use this code
Use B45 when the provider documents cryptococcosis, cryptococcal infection, or cryptococcal disease without a more specific site or manifestation code. It may also apply when the record confirms the organism and the diagnosis is established clinically. Check documentation for pulmonary, meningeal, or disseminated involvement.
Do not use for
Do not use B45 for mere exposure, colonization, or a suspected infection not confirmed by the provider. If a more specific cryptococcal code or manifestation is documented, code that instead.
Coding tip
Review the note for site and associated manifestations, because cryptococcosis often requires more specific coding than the category code alone.