B50
Non-Billable

Plasmodium falciparum malaria

Non-Billable / Non-Specific Code

What is Plasmodium falciparum malaria?

ICD-10-CM B50 is the diagnosis code for Plasmodium falciparum malaria. This code falls under the section "Protozoal diseases" within Chapter 1 — Certain infectious and parasitic diseases (A00-B99). It is a non-billable/non-specific ICD-10-CM code that should not be used for reimbursement. A more specific sub-code is required for billing. Medical coders and healthcare providers use this code to document and classify diagnoses in electronic health records, insurance claims, and clinical databases.

Coding Guidelines for B50

Always refer to the official ICD-10-CM Tabular List for complete coding guidelines. Ensure documentation supports the specificity of the code selected. When in doubt, consult a certified medical coder or the latest CMS guidelines.

ICD-10-CM Code Hierarchy

Understanding where B50 sits in the ICD-10-CM classification helps ensure proper coding:

Current CodeB50 — Plasmodium falciparum malaria
Sub-Codes (3)
Sub-Codes 3 entries
B50.0Plasmodium falciparum malaria with cerebral complicationsBillableB50.8Other severe and complicated Plasmodium falciparum malariaBillableB50.9Plasmodium falciparum malaria, unspecifiedBillable
Related Codes

Frequently Asked Questions

Is B50 a billable ICD-10-CM code?

No, B50 is a non-billable/non-specific code. You should use a more specific sub-code for billing and reimbursement.

What does B50 mean?

B50 is the ICD-10-CM diagnosis code for "Plasmodium falciparum malaria". It is used by healthcare providers to classify and document this condition in medical records and insurance claims.

What section is B50 in?

B50 is located in Section B50-B64 — "Protozoal diseases" within Chapter 1 of the ICD-10-CM Tabular List.

What are the sub-codes of B50?

B50 has 3 sub-code(s) that provide more specific detail: B50.0, B50.8, B50.9.

When should I use B50?

Use B50 when the patients documented diagnosis matches "Plasmodium falciparum malaria" and the clinical documentation supports this level of specificity. Always verify with the latest ICD-10-CM guidelines and payer requirements.

People Also Ask

What is the ICD-10 code for Plasmodium falciparum malaria?

The ICD-10-CM code for Plasmodium falciparum malaria is B50.

Can B50 be used for primary diagnosis?

No, B50 is non-billable. Use a more specific sub-code for primary diagnosis billing.

What chapter is B50 in?

B50 is in Chapter 1 of the ICD-10-CM Tabular List.

Is B50 valid for 2026?

Yes, B50 is a valid ICD-10-CM code for the 2026 fiscal year, subject to official CMS updates.

See Also

← PreviousB49Unspecified mycosisNext →B50.0Plasmodium falciparum malaria with cerebral complications
Code Details
B50
Plasmodium falciparum malaria
Non-Billable / Non-Specific Code
1 — Certain infectious and parasitic diseases (A00-B99)
B50-B64 — Protozoal diseases
2026 ICD-10-CM