ESBL ICD-10-CM Codes

Explore the commonly used ICD-10 codes for diagnosing ESBL, a bacteria resistant to many antibiotics. Learn about ESBL resistance, treatment options, and more.

By Patricia Buenaventura on Aug 8, 2025.

Fact Checked by Karina Jimenea.

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What ICD-10 codes are used for ESBL?

Extended spectrum beta-lactamase (ESBL) is a type of bacteria that displays resistance to many antibiotics, posing significant challenges in treatment. Let's delve into the commonly used ICD-10 codes for diagnosing and treating ESBL:

Z16.12: Extended spectrum beta lactamase (ESBL) resistance

This code, under Z00-Z99: Factors influencing health status and contact with health services, signifies patients suffering from infections triggered by ESBL-producing bacteria. The code implies that the bacteria resist certain antibiotics, necessitating alternative treatments.

B96.20: Unspecified Escherichia coli [E. coli] as the cause of diseases classified elsewhere

This code, under B96: Other bacterial agents as the cause of diseases classified elsewhere, is typically paired with Z16.12 when ESBL-producing E. Coli bacteria cause the infection.

N39.0: Urinary tract infection, site not specified

This code is used with Z16.12 to denote a UTI caused by ESBL-producing bacteria.

A41.9: Sepsis, unspecified organism

This code is used when sepsis arises due to ESBL-producing bacteria.

To gain a more in-depth understanding of these ICD-10 codes, consider watching our comprehensive explainer video on ESBL ICD Codes. It provides detailed explanations and visual representations of each code, helping you to grasp their clinical implications more effectively.

Which ESBL ICD codes are billable?

All of the aforementioned codes are billable.

Clinical information

Extended spectrum beta-lactamase (ESBL) producing bacteria exhibit a high resistance to most conventional antibiotics. This resistance significantly complicates the treatment of infections caused by these bacteria.
ESBL infections predominantly occur in the urinary tract. However, they are not confined to this area and have the potential to infect other parts of the body as well.
These infections are most commonly contracted within healthcare settings. Patients with compromised immune systems or those undergoing invasive medical procedures are particularly at risk.
The management of ESBL infections necessitates a strategic approach. As the bacteria resist many standard antibiotics, alternative medications must be employed for effective treatment.
It's crucial to note that susceptibility testing often guides selecting an appropriate antibiotic. This ensures that the chosen medication will effectively counter the specific strain of ESBL-producing bacteria.
Preventive measures play a critical role in controlling the spread of ESBL infections. These include stringent hygiene practices, such as regular hand washing, especially in healthcare settings.
Rapid identification and isolation of infected patients can also help prevent the spread of ESBL infections within healthcare facilities.
Constant monitoring and surveillance are required to track the prevalence and spread of ESBL-producing bacteria, enabling timely intervention and management strategies.

Synonyms include

ESBL resistance
ESBL UTI
ESBL E. coli infection
ESBL sepsis
ESBL-producing bacterial infection

Commonly asked questions

An ESBL ICD code should be used when a patient is diagnosed with an infection caused by ESBL-producing bacteria.

Treatment typically involves using alternative antibiotics that the ESBL-producing bacteria are not resistant to.

A diagnosis code for ESBL indicates that the patient has an infection caused by bacteria that produce Extended Spectrum Beta-Lactamase, making them resistant to many antibiotics.

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