ICD-10 Code B37.5 – Candidal meningitis (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code B37.5 – Candidal meningitis
What it is
B37.5 identifies meningitis caused by Candida species, a fungal infection involving the membranes around the brain and spinal cord. Use it when documentation clearly states candidal meningitis.
Clinical signs
Clinical features vary; refer to documentation. Reported findings may include meningitis signs such as headache, fever, neck stiffness, altered mental status, or neurologic changes, but confirm the diagnosis is candidal.
When to use this code
Use B37.5 when the provider documents Candida infection of the meninges, including confirmed candidal meningitis or equivalent wording. It applies when the record identifies the fungal cause rather than only suspected meningitis. If the chart says meningitis without an organism, check documentation before coding this specific code.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for bacterial, viral, or unspecified meningitis. Also avoid it when Candida infection is documented elsewhere but meningitis is not stated.
Coding tip
Code B37.5 only when the organism and site are both documented; otherwise, query or check documentation.