ICD-10 Code G00 – Bacterial meningitis, not elsewhere classified (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code G00 – Bacterial meningitis, not elsewhere classified
What it is
G00 identifies bacterial meningitis that is not classified elsewhere. Use it for bacterial infection of the meninges when the organism or specific category is not assigned to another code.
Clinical signs
Clinical features vary; refer to documentation. Typical findings include acute meningeal irritation, fever, headache, neck stiffness, and altered mental status, but you should code only what is documented.
When to use this code
Use G00 when the record documents bacterial meningitis and does not name a more specific causative organism or a more specific ICD-10-CM category. It may also fit when the clinician documents “bacterial meningitis” without further detail. Check documentation if the chart suggests a different infectious agent or a separate underlying condition.
Do not use for
Do not use G00 for viral, fungal, or other nonbacterial meningitis. Do not use it when the provider documents a more specific bacterial meningitis code or a different primary diagnosis.
Coding tip
Look for the organism and any linked infection site in the note before assigning G00.