ICD-10 Code A48.51 – Infant Botulism (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code A48.51 – Infant botulism
What it is
Infant botulism is a rare paralytic illness caused by toxin-producing Clostridium botulinum in infants. It occurs when spores colonize the intestine and produce toxin, leading to weakness and poor muscle tone.
Clinical signs
Typical findings include constipation, poor feeding, weak cry, hypotonia, and decreased suck. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation for neurologic involvement or respiratory compromise.
When to use this code
Use A48.51 when the provider documents infant botulism or confirms botulism in an infant. It may also fit cases described as intestinal colonization botulism in an infant with characteristic neurologic weakness. Code only when the diagnosis is established or clearly documented.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for adult botulism, foodborne botulism, or wound botulism. If the record only mentions suspected exposure or a nonspecific toxic effect, check documentation.
Coding tip
Look for the provider’s final diagnosis, not just toxin testing or exposure history, before assigning A48.51.