ICD-10 Code A48.52 – Wound botulism (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code A48.52 – Wound botulism
What it is
Wound botulism is a serious infection caused by toxin produced in a wound by Clostridium botulinum. It can lead to botulism symptoms even when the source is not foodborne.
Clinical signs
Clinical features vary; refer to documentation. Typical findings include descending weakness, cranial nerve palsies, blurred or double vision, drooping eyelids, and difficulty speaking or swallowing.
When to use this code
Use A48.52 when the record clearly documents wound botulism as the diagnosis. This code fits cases where botulinum toxin is linked to a contaminated wound, including injection-related or traumatic wounds if documented.
Apply it when the provider identifies botulism from a wound source rather than foodborne illness or another cause. Check documentation if the chart only mentions suspected botulism without confirmation.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for foodborne botulism, infant botulism, or unspecified botulism. Also avoid it when the note describes a wound infection without botulism.
Coding tip
Confirm the provider documents the wound source and botulism diagnosis together before assigning A48.52.