ICD-10 Code B96.1 – Klebsiella pneumoniae [K. pneumoniae] as the cause of diseases classified elsewhere (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code B96.1 – Klebsiella pneumoniae [K. pneumoniae] as the cause of diseases classified elsewhere
What it is
This code identifies Klebsiella pneumoniae as the infectious organism causing another condition, rather than the primary disease itself. Use it only when the record links this bacterium to a separate diagnosis.
Clinical signs
Clinical features vary; refer to documentation. You may see signs of a bacterial infection at the involved site, with culture or other provider documentation identifying Klebsiella pneumoniae.
When to use this code
Use B96.1 when the provider states that Klebsiella pneumoniae is the cause of a condition classified elsewhere, such as an infection at a specific body site. Pair it with the underlying diagnosis code, not as a stand-alone principal diagnosis. Check documentation for the site and causal wording.
Do not use for
Do not use this code when Klebsiella pneumoniae is merely listed as a colonizer or an incidental culture result without a documented causal relationship. Do not assign it instead of the site-specific infection code.
Coding tip
Always code the underlying infection first, then add B96.1 only when the organism is clearly documented as the cause.