ICD-10 Code A02.21 – Salmonella meningitis (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code A02.21 – Salmonella meningitis
What it is
A02.21 identifies meningitis caused by Salmonella infection. Use it when the record shows Salmonella as the documented cause of inflammation of the meninges, the membranes around the brain and spinal cord.
Clinical signs
Clinical features vary; refer to documentation. Typical meningitis findings may include fever, headache, neck stiffness, altered mental status, or other neurologic signs, with Salmonella identified as the cause.
When to use this code
Use A02.21 when the provider documents Salmonella meningitis, Salmonella meningitis due to a specified species, or Salmonella infection of the central nervous system with meningitis. Code it from confirmed documentation, not from nonspecific infection workups.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for Salmonella gastroenteritis, septicemia, or other localized Salmonella infections without meningitis. If meningitis is not documented, check documentation before assigning A02.21.
Coding tip
Look for a clear provider statement linking Salmonella to meningitis; if the organism or site is unclear, query or check documentation.