ICD-10 Code J15.6 – Pneumonia due to other Gram-negative bacteria (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code J15.6 – Pneumonia due to other Gram-negative bacteria
What it is
This code identifies pneumonia caused by Gram-negative bacteria other than the organisms listed in more specific ICD-10 categories. Use it when the provider documents a Gram-negative bacterial pneumonia and names an organism that fits this description.
Clinical signs
Typical findings include cough, fever, shortness of breath, and imaging consistent with pneumonia. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation for the specific organism and confirmed diagnosis.
When to use this code
Use J15.6 when the record clearly states pneumonia due to an other Gram-negative bacterium, such as when culture or provider documentation identifies the causative organism and it is not assigned to a more specific code. You should code the documented organism, not a suspected one, unless the provider confirms it.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for viral, fungal, aspiration, or unspecified pneumonia. Also avoid it when the documented organism has a more specific ICD-10 code. Check documentation.
Coding tip
Verify the organism name in the chart and choose the most specific pneumonia code available before defaulting to J15.6.