ICD-10 Coding for MSSA Infection(B95.61, Z22.321, A41.01)
Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for MSSA Infection. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.
Also known as:
Related ICD-10 Code Ranges
Complete code families applicable to MSSA Infection
B95.6-B95.61Primary Range
Staphylococcus aureus as the cause of diseases classified elsewhere
This range includes codes for MSSA when it is the causative agent of other diseases.
Carrier of methicillin-susceptible Staphylococcus aureus
Used for documenting asymptomatic carriers of MSSA.
Code Comparison: When to Use Each Code
Compare key differences between these codes to ensure accurate selection
| Code | Description | When to Use | Key Documentation |
|---|---|---|---|
| B95.61 | Methicillin susceptible Staphylococcus aureus as the cause of diseases classified elsewhere | Use when MSSA is identified as the causative organism for another condition. |
|
| Z22.321 | Carrier of methicillin-susceptible Staphylococcus aureus | Use for documenting carrier status in the absence of active infection. |
|
| A41.01 | Sepsis due to methicillin susceptible Staphylococcus aureus | Use as the primary code for sepsis cases caused by MSSA. |
|
Clinical Decision Support
Always review the patient's clinical documentation thoroughly. When in doubt, choose the more specific code and ensure documentation supports it.
Key Information: ICD-10 code for MSSA infection
Essential facts and insights about MSSA Infection
Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for mssa
Decision Criteria
clinical Criteria
- MSSA identified in culture
coding Criteria
- Secondary code for MSSA-related conditions
Applicable To
- Bacterial osteomyelitis due to MSSA
- Cellulitis due to MSSA
Excludes
- MRSA infections (B95.62)
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Positive culture for MSSA
- Documentation of MSSA as causative agent
Code-Specific Risks
- Incorrectly using as a primary diagnosis
Coding Notes
- Always sequence after the primary condition code.
Z22.321 - Carrier of methicillin-susceptible Staphylococcus aureus
Use for documenting carrier status in the absence of active infection.
Applicable To
- Asymptomatic carrier of MSSA
Excludes
- Active MSSA infection
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Positive nasal swab for MSSA
- No active infection present
Coding Notes
Document carrier status clearly in the medical record.
A41.01 - Sepsis due to methicillin susceptible Staphylococcus aureus
Use as the primary code for sepsis cases caused by MSSA.
Applicable To
- Septicemia due to MSSA
Excludes
- Sepsis due to MRSA (A41.02)
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Blood cultures positive for MSSA
- Clinical signs of sepsis
Coding Notes
Ensure sepsis is documented explicitly by the physician.
Ancillary Codes
Additional codes that should be used in conjunction with the main diagnosis codes when applicable.
Carrier of methicillin-susceptible Staphylococcus aureus
Z22.321Differential Codes
Alternative codes to consider when ruling out similar conditions to the primary diagnosis.
Documentation & Coding Risks
Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting MSSA Infection to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code B95.61.
Impact
Clinical: May lead to inappropriate treatment., Regulatory: Non-compliance with coding guidelines., Financial: Potential claim denials.
Mitigation Strategy
Ensure sepsis is documented by the physician, Verify clinical criteria are met
Impact
Reimbursement: Incorrect sequencing can lead to claim denials., Compliance: Violates ICD-10 coding guidelines., Data Quality: Affects accuracy of clinical data.
Mitigation Strategy
Always sequence B95.61 after the primary condition code.
Impact
Reimbursement: May affect DRG assignment., Compliance: Incomplete coding of patient status., Data Quality: Inaccurate representation of patient condition.
Mitigation Strategy
Include Z22.321 alongside active infection codes.
Impact
Failure to document carrier status can lead to incomplete coding.
Mitigation Strategy
Ensure carrier status is documented and coded when applicable.
Documentation errors, coding pitfalls, and audit risks are interconnected aspects of medical coding and billing. Addressing all three areas helps ensure accurate coding, optimal reimbursement, and regulatory compliance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about ICD-10 coding for MSSA Infection, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.
Documentation Templates for MSSA Infection
Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for MSSA Infection. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.
MSSA Bacteremia
Specialty: Infectious DiseaseRequired Elements
- Organism identification
- Susceptibility testing results
- Infection site
- Treatment plan
Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation
Poor Documentation Example
Good Documentation Example
Explanation
Need help with ICD-10 coding for MSSA Infection? Ask your questions below.