ICD-10 Code G01 – Meningitis in bacterial diseases classified elsewhere (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code G01 – Meningitis in bacterial diseases classified elsewhere
What it is
G01 identifies meningitis when it occurs as a manifestation of a bacterial disease classified elsewhere. Use this code for the meningitis complication, not for the underlying infection.
Clinical signs
Typical findings include headache, fever, neck stiffness, photophobia, and altered mental status. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation.
When to use this code
Use G01 when the record states meningitis is due to a bacterial condition coded elsewhere, such as a documented secondary meningitis. You should also code the underlying bacterial disease first, when directed by the record and coding guidelines.
Do not use for
Do not use G01 for primary bacterial meningitis coded directly in the meningitis category. Do not use it when the documentation does not link meningitis to an underlying bacterial disease; check documentation.
Coding tip
Always verify the causal relationship and sequence the underlying infection correctly before assigning G01.