ICD-10 Code A32.1 – Listerial meningitis and meningoencephalitis (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code A32.1 – Listerial meningitis and meningoencephalitis
What it is
A32.1 identifies meningitis or meningoencephalitis caused by Listeria monocytogenes. Use it when the record clearly links the central nervous system infection to Listeria.
Clinical signs
Typical findings include meningitis symptoms such as headache, fever, neck stiffness, and altered mental status; meningoencephalitis may also involve confusion or other neurologic changes. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation.
When to use this code
Use A32.1 when the provider documents Listeria as the cause of meningitis, meningoencephalitis, or both. It is appropriate when the diagnosis is confirmed or clearly stated in the chart, even if the note is brief. Check documentation if the organism is suspected but not specified.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for nonspecific meningitis without an identified Listeria cause. Avoid it when the record describes another Listeria infection site or when the diagnosis is uncertain; check documentation.
Coding tip
Code the documented CNS infection site exactly as stated, and verify that Listeria is named as the causative organism.