Staphylococcal arthritis, unspecified joint

This diagnosis code signifies an inflammatory joint condition caused by a Staphylococcus bacterial infection, where the specific joint affected is not documented. It represents a bacterial infection within a joint space, leading to pain, swelling, and restricted movement. This condition can lead to significant joint damage if not promptly treated.

Use this code when the medical record clearly indicates a diagnosis of staphylococcal arthritis, but the physician's documentation does not specify which particular joint is involved. This is appropriate when laboratory confirmation of Staphylococcus as the causative agent is present, but the exact anatomical location of the infection is missing.

• Avoid using this code if the specific joint (e.g., knee, hip, shoulder) is documented; instead, use the more specific code from the M00.0- subcategory.
• Ensure documentation supports a definitive diagnosis of staphylococcal infection, not just suspected or possible.
• Consider sequencing this code as the primary diagnosis if it is the main reason for the encounter, followed by codes for any associated systemic infections.