ICD-10 Code A05.2 – Foodborne Clostridium perfringens [Clostridium welchii] intoxication (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code A05.2 – Foodborne Clostridium perfringens [Clostridium welchii] intoxication
What it is
This code identifies food poisoning caused by Clostridium perfringens toxin after eating contaminated food. Use it when documentation states this specific bacterial intoxication, not a general gastrointestinal infection.
Clinical signs
Typical features include sudden abdominal cramps and diarrhea after a contaminated meal. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation, especially when the record confirms the organism or toxin-based foodborne illness.
When to use this code
Use A05.2 when the provider documents foodborne Clostridium perfringens intoxication, Clostridium welchii intoxication, or toxin-mediated food poisoning due to this organism. It fits cases linked to a common meal or outbreak source. Check documentation if the chart only says “food poisoning” without a named cause.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for nonspecific gastroenteritis, other bacterial foodborne infections, or poisoning from chemicals or toxins unrelated to food. Check documentation when the cause is unclear or another organism is identified.
Coding tip
Code the documented organism exactly; if the note says only “foodborne illness,” you need clearer provider specificity before assigning A05.2.