Pneumococcal arthritis, right knee

This code signifies an inflammatory joint condition of the right knee caused by a Streptococcus pneumoniae bacterial infection. It represents a specific form of septic arthritis where the pneumococcus bacterium has invaded the joint space, leading to pain, swelling, and restricted movement.

Apply this code when documentation clearly indicates a diagnosis of pneumococcal arthritis affecting the right knee. Supporting evidence typically includes positive joint fluid cultures for Streptococcus pneumoniae from the right knee, along with clinical signs and symptoms of acute arthritis localized to that joint.

• Ensure the laterality (right knee) is explicitly documented; do not assume.
• Distinguish from other bacterial arthritides; the causative organism Streptococcus pneumoniae must be confirmed.
• Consider sequencing this code as the primary diagnosis if it is the reason for the encounter, followed by any associated systemic conditions.