ICD-10 Code B96.8 – Other specified bacterial agents as the cause of diseases classified elsewhere (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code B96.8 – Other specified bacterial agents as the cause of diseases classified elsewhere
What it is
B96.8 identifies a bacterial organism named in the record as the cause of another condition classified elsewhere. Use it when the provider documents a specific bacterial agent that does not have a more precise code.
Clinical signs
Clinical features vary by the underlying infection or disease, not by this code itself. Refer to documentation for the site, organism, and the condition being caused.
When to use this code
Use B96.8 as an additional code when the chart names an “other specified” bacterial agent linked to a separate diagnosis. It supports organism reporting for infections, inflammatory conditions, or complications classified elsewhere. You should not use it as the primary diagnosis.
Do not use for
Do not use B96.8 when the organism has a more specific ICD-10 code or when the bacterial cause is not documented. Check documentation if the record only says “bacterial infection” without naming the agent.
Coding tip
Code the underlying condition first, then add B96.8 only when the provider clearly identifies an unspecified-but-named bacterial agent.