ICD-10 Code B96.5 – Pseudomonas (aeruginosa) (mallei) (pseudomallei) as the cause of diseases classified elsewhere (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code B96.5 – Pseudomonas (aeruginosa) (mallei) (pseudomallei) as the cause of diseases classified elsewhere
What it is
This code identifies Pseudomonas species documented as the cause of another condition, not the primary disease itself. Use it when the record links the organism to an infection or disorder classified elsewhere.
Clinical signs
Clinical features vary; refer to documentation. Typical records may note Pseudomonas isolation or a clinician’s statement that the organism is the etiologic agent of the associated condition.
When to use this code
Use B96.5 when the provider documents Pseudomonas as the cause of a separate diagnosis, such as an infection coded elsewhere. It is an additional code, so you should pair it with the underlying condition when the record supports that linkage.
Do not use it for a suspected organism without confirmation in the note. If the chart does not clearly connect Pseudomonas to the condition, check documentation before coding.
Do not use for
Do not use this code as the principal diagnosis or for conditions not clearly attributed to Pseudomonas. It is also wrong for nonspecific infection coding when the organism is not documented.
Coding tip
Always code the underlying disease first, then add B96.5 only when the provider explicitly identifies Pseudomonas as the cause.