ICD-10 Code A54.81 – Gonococcal meningitis (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code A54.81 – Gonococcal meningitis
What it is
A54.81 identifies meningitis caused by Neisseria gonorrhoeae. Use it when documentation confirms gonococcal infection involving the meninges, not a nonspecific bacterial meningitis.
Clinical signs
Clinical features vary; refer to documentation. Typical meningitis findings may include headache, neck stiffness, fever, photophobia, or altered mental status, with gonococcal infection confirmed by the provider.
When to use this code
Use A54.81 when the record states gonococcal meningitis, gonococcal meningeal infection, or meningitis due to N. gonorrhoeae. Code it from the provider’s documented diagnosis, even if the chart also notes disseminated gonococcal infection.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for meningitis from other organisms, suspected meningitis without confirmation, or uncomplicated gonorrhea without CNS involvement. Check documentation if the causal organism is not specified.
Coding tip
Verify that the provider links meningitis to gonococcal infection before assigning A54.81.