ICD-10 Code A04.71 – Enterocolitis due to Clostridium difficile, recurrent (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code A04.71 – Enterocolitis due to Clostridium difficile, recurrent
What it is
A04.71 identifies recurrent enterocolitis caused by Clostridium difficile. Use it when the patient has a documented repeat episode after a prior C. difficile infection.
Clinical signs
Typical findings include diarrhea, abdominal pain, and colitis symptoms after prior infection. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation for recurrence and any confirmed C. difficile testing.
When to use this code
Use this code when the provider documents recurrent C. difficile enterocolitis, relapse, or another episode after treatment of a previous infection. It also fits follow-up notes that clearly identify the current illness as recurrent. Check documentation if the record only says “history of C. difficile” without active recurrence.
Do not use for
Do not use it for a first documented episode of C. difficile enterocolitis. Do not assign it for nonspecific diarrhea or past infection without current recurrence.
Coding tip
Confirm that the note states “recurrent” or an equivalent term before selecting A04.71.