Staphylococcal arthritis, right ankle and foot

This diagnosis code signifies an inflammatory joint condition affecting the right ankle and/or foot, specifically caused by a Staphylococcus bacterial infection. It indicates an acute or chronic infectious arthritis localized to this particular anatomical region.

Apply this code when documentation clearly states a diagnosis of staphylococcal arthritis impacting the right ankle and/or foot. Supporting documentation should include positive cultures identifying Staphylococcus from joint fluid, synovial biopsy, or blood, along with clinical signs and symptoms of arthritis.

• Ensure laterality is explicitly documented as "right" for the ankle and/or foot.
• Distinguish from other bacterial arthritides; the causative organism "Staphylococcus" must be specified.
• Consider sequencing this code as the primary diagnosis if it is the reason for the encounter, followed by codes for any associated systemic infections or complications.