Postdysenteric arthropathy, unspecified site

This code describes joint inflammation (arthropathy) that develops as a reactive complication following a dysenteric infection. It signifies a sterile inflammatory response in the joints, not an active infection within the joint itself, occurring after an episode of severe diarrhea, typically caused by bacteria like Shigella or Salmonella.

Use this code when documentation clearly indicates joint pain, swelling, or stiffness that began after a confirmed or suspected dysenteric illness. The physician's notes should specify a post-infectious, reactive arthropathy linked to a preceding dysenteric episode.

• Ensure the documentation explicitly links the arthropathy to a prior dysenteric infection.
• Do not use this code for septic arthritis, which involves direct bacterial infection of the joint.
• Sequence this code after the code for the underlying dysenteric infection, if still active and relevant.