B9689 - Other bacterial infection causing illness in another part of the body

International Classification of Diseases

Last updated: 10/3/2025

What is a ICD-10 Code?

ICD-10 (International Classification of Diseases, 10th Revision) codes are used to classify and code all diagnoses, symptoms, and procedures recorded in association with hospital care. These codes provide a standardized way to track health conditions and their treatment outcomes.

Detailed Description

This code indicates that a bacterial infection (caused by bacteria other than the most common types) is the underlying cause of a disease or condition affecting another part of your body. This is what doctors call a 'secondary code' - it helps explain what caused your main health problem. For example, if you have pneumonia caused by an unusual type of bacteria, this code would identify that specific bacterial cause. The bacteria involved are less common ones that don't have their own specific codes in the medical coding system.

Additional Information

This is a supplementary code used alongside a primary diagnosis code. The actual cost and treatment will depend on the primary condition being treated and the specific bacteria involved. Always complete the full course of any prescribed antibiotics even if you feel better.

Category

Infectious Disease

Medical Specialty

Internal Medicine, Infectious Disease

Expected Costs

Your actual cost will depend on your insurance coverage, provider location, and specific circumstances.

What's Required Before This

  • Laboratory testing to identify the specific bacterial cause
  • Primary diagnosis of the condition being caused by the bacteria

What to Expect After

  • Antibiotic treatment as prescribed
  • Follow-up testing to confirm infection clearance
  • Monitoring for treatment response
  • Possible consultation with infectious disease specialist

Why Understanding This Code Matters

On Your Medical Bill

This code appears on your medical bills to identify the specific service, procedure, drug, or medical diagnosis you received. Understanding what it means helps you verify you're being charged correctly and know what to expect.

For Your Health

Knowing what this code represents helps you understand your treatment plan, ask better questions during appointments, and track your healthcare journey more effectively.

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