ICD-10 Code A04.72 – Enterocolitis due to Clostridium difficile, not specified as recurrent (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code A04.72 – Enterocolitis due to Clostridium difficile, not specified as recurrent
What it is
A04.72 identifies enterocolitis caused by Clostridium difficile when the record does not state that the infection is recurrent. Use it for documented C. difficile infection involving the intestines.
Clinical signs
Typical findings include diarrhea, abdominal pain, fever, and colitis after C. difficile infection. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation for confirmed diagnosis and whether recurrence is mentioned.
When to use this code
Use A04.72 when the provider documents C. difficile enterocolitis and does not describe the episode as recurrent. It also fits cases where the note clearly supports active infection but gives no recurrence detail.
Code from the physician’s wording, not from assumptions about prior episodes. If the chart says recurrent, or if the episode type is unclear, check documentation before assigning this code.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for asymptomatic colonization, carrier state, or diarrhea without documented C. difficile enterocolitis. Do not use it when the record specifically identifies a recurrent episode.
Coding tip
Look for explicit wording such as “not recurrent” or an acute episode without recurrence language before selecting A04.72.