ICD-10 Code B96.6 – Bacteroides fragilis [B. fragilis] as the cause of diseases classified elsewhere (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code B96.6 – Bacteroides fragilis [B. fragilis] as the cause of diseases classified elsewhere
What it is
This code identifies Bacteroides fragilis as the documented cause of another condition, such as an infection or abscess, when the underlying disease is classified elsewhere. Use it only when the organism is specifically named in the record.
Clinical signs
Clinical features vary; refer to documentation. B. fragilis is commonly associated with anaerobic, often mixed infections, including abscesses or intra-abdominal infection, when the organism is identified by culture or clearly stated by the provider.
When to use this code
Use B96.6 as an additional code when the chart states B. fragilis is the cause of a condition coded elsewhere, such as a postoperative or deep soft tissue infection. Pair it with the code for the site or disease being treated. If the organism is only suspected, check documentation before coding.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for unspecified bacterial infection or when B. fragilis is not documented. It is not the primary code for the infection site or for carrier states.
Coding tip
Always code the underlying infection first, then add B96.6 only when B. fragilis is explicitly identified as the cause.