ICD-10 Code A87 – Viral meningitis (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code A87 – Viral meningitis
What it is
A87 identifies viral meningitis, an inflammation of the meninges caused by a viral infection. Use it when the provider documents viral meningitis or aseptic meningitis due to a virus.
Clinical signs
Typical findings include headache, fever, neck stiffness, photophobia, and sometimes nausea or vomiting. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation.
When to use this code
Use A87 when the record clearly states viral meningitis as the diagnosis, including cases confirmed by cerebrospinal fluid studies or documented clinical assessment. Code it when the provider identifies a viral cause or uses the term aseptic meningitis in a viral context. Check documentation if the organism is not specified.
Do not use for
Do not use A87 for bacterial, fungal, or tuberculous meningitis. Do not use it when the chart only documents headache, fever, or meningismus without a meningitis diagnosis.
Coding tip
Verify the provider’s final diagnosis and avoid assigning A87 from symptoms alone.