ICD-10 Code A41.51 – Sepsis due to Escherichia coli [E. coli] (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code A41.51 – Sepsis due to Escherichia coli [E. coli]
What it is
A41.51 identifies sepsis caused by Escherichia coli infection. Use it when the record shows systemic infection due to E. coli, not just localized E. coli disease.
Clinical signs
Clinical features may include fever or hypothermia, tachycardia, altered mental status, and signs of organ dysfunction. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation.
When to use this code
Use this code when the provider documents sepsis due to E. coli, or when the organism is clearly identified as the source of sepsis. It may be assigned from blood, urine, abdominal, or other documented infection sites if sepsis is specified. Code the underlying infection and any associated organ dysfunction as documented.
Do not use for
Do not use A41.51 for uncomplicated E. coli infection or colonization without sepsis. Check documentation if the note only states bacteremia, infection, or suspected sepsis.
Coding tip
Confirm that sepsis is explicitly documented and that E. coli is the causative organism before assigning A41.51.