ICD-10 Code A40.9 – Streptococcal sepsis, unspecified (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code A40.9 – Streptococcal sepsis, unspecified
What it is
A40.9 identifies sepsis caused by Streptococcus when the specific streptococcal species is not documented. Use it for a systemic infection with confirmed or documented streptococcal origin, but without further organism detail.
Clinical signs
Typical findings include acute systemic illness with infection signs such as fever, chills, confusion, low blood pressure, or organ dysfunction. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation.
When to use this code
Use A40.9 when the record states streptococcal sepsis but does not name the species, such as group A, group B, or pneumoniae. It also fits when the provider documents streptococcal septicemia or sepsis and no more specific code is available. Verify that sepsis, not only bacteremia or localized infection, is documented.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for streptococcal bacteremia without sepsis, or for localized streptococcal infections without systemic involvement. If another streptococcal species is documented, code that specific category instead.
Coding tip
Query the provider when the note mentions streptococcal infection but does not clearly document sepsis, because the distinction changes code selection.