A05.2 is a billable and specific ICD-10-CM code. Accurate documentation of A05.2 facilitates proper diagnosis, effective management, and correct reimbursement.
This guideline will provide the use, official coding guidelines, and historical background of A05.2.
What is the ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code for Foodborne Clostridium perfringens intoxication?
The ICD-10-CM code for Foodborne Clostridium perfringens Intoxication is A05.2.
Foodborne Clostridium perfringens intoxication is a type of food poisoning. It happens when you eat food containing harmful toxins made by the bacteria Clostridium perfringens.
Clostridium perfringens is a type of bacteria that is widely found in the environment, including in soil, water, and the intestines of humans and animals.
It can produce toxins that cause gastrointestinal illnesses when ingested.This bacteria grows quickly in food that is not cooked or stored properly, especially meat, poultry, and gravy.
It is one of the most common causes of foodborne illness around the world.
Proper documentation using A05.2 ensures patients receive appropriate care and enables accurate healthcare reimbursement.
Synonyms used for Foodborne Clostridium perfringens intoxication
- Clostridium perfringens food poisoning
- Perfringens food poisoning
- C. perfringens gastroenteritis
History Background of ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code A05.2
The ICD-9-CM system, first introduced in 1979, provided the initial framework for coding diseases and health-related conditions in the United States.
The ICD-9-CM diagnosis code for Foodborne Clostridium perfringens Intoxication is 005.2.This coding remained consistent from 1979 to 2015.
While the ICD-9-CM system offered a basic approach to disease classification, modern healthcare needs more detail and specificity.
To address this, the ICD-10-CM system was launched in 2015, introducing a more comprehensive and accurate coding structure.
The transition from ICD-9-CM to ICD-10-CM significantly improved the ability to document and analyze conditions such as Foodborne Clostridium perfringens Intoxication.
The 2025 edition of ICD-10-CM A05.2 became effective on October 1, 2024.
| Year | ICD-10-CM Code | Description |
| 2020 | A05.2 | No Change |
| 2021 | A05.2 | No Change |
| 2022 | A05.2 | No Change |
| 2023 | A05.2 | No Change |
| 2024 | A05.2 | No Change |
| 2025 | A05.2 | No Change |
Symptoms of Foodborne Clostridium perfringens intoxication
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea(usually watery)
- Stomach pain and cramps.
- Fever
- Headache
- Nausea (less common)
Symptoms typically begin 6–24 hours after consuming contaminated food and last for about 24–48 hours.
How Foodborne Clostridium perfringens intoxication is Caused
The illness is caused by ingesting food contaminated with C. perfringens spores that produce toxins in the intestines. Common causes include:
- Improperly cooked food: When food, especially meat or poultry, is not cooked thoroughly.
- Poor food storage: Leaving cooked food at unsafe temperatures (between 40°F and 140°F) allows bacteria to grow.
- Cross-contamination: When cooked food comes into contact with raw food or contaminated surfaces.
Other ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Codes in A05
ICD-10-CM code A05 | Other bacterial foodborne intoxications, not elsewhere classified has following sub categories including A05.2 :
- A05.0 Foodborne staphylococcal intoxication.
- A05.1 Botulism food poisoning.
- A05.2 Foodborne Clostridium perfringens [Clostridium welchii] intoxication.
- A05.3 Foodborne Vibrio parahaemolyticus intoxication.
- A05.4 Foodborne Bacillus cereus intoxication.
- A05.5 Foodborne Vibrio vulnificus intoxication.
- A05.8 Other specified bacterial foodborne intoxications.
- A05.9 Bacterial foodborne intoxication, unspecified.
Final Thought
Proper coding of A05.2 is essential for diagnosing and managing Foodborne Clostridium perfringens intoxication . A clear understanding of its symptoms, causes, and coding guidelines ensures accurate documentation and effective treatment. Precise use of this code enhances patient care, supports healthcare planning, and guarantees proper reimbursement for medical services.
