ICD-10 Code A48.0 – Gas gangrene (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code A48.0 – Gas gangrene
What it is
Gas gangrene is a severe soft tissue infection caused by toxin-producing bacteria, most often involving muscle. It can spread rapidly and produce gas in the affected tissues.
Clinical signs
Typical findings include sudden severe pain, swelling, skin discoloration, and foul-smelling drainage. Crepitus or tissue gas may be present; clinical features vary, so refer to documentation.
When to use this code
Use A48.0 when the provider documents gas gangrene, clostridial myonecrosis, or a similar diagnosis. Code it for confirmed infection of soft tissue or muscle with gas formation, not merely a wound at risk for infection.
If the record describes a postoperative, traumatic, or wound-related source, you may need additional codes for the underlying injury or complication. Check documentation for the exact site and cause.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for simple cellulitis, abscess, or non-gas-forming necrotizing infection. Do not assign it when gas is seen on imaging without a documented diagnosis of gas gangrene.
Coding tip
Confirm the provider’s wording and any associated wound, injury, or postoperative complication before coding.