Postimmunization arthropathy, vertebrae

This code describes inflammation and pain in the vertebral joints that occurs as an adverse reaction following an immunization. It represents a sterile arthritis affecting the spine, directly attributable to a vaccine administration.

Use this code when documentation clearly links new-onset arthropathy of the vertebrae to a recent immunization. The patient's medical record should specify the vaccine administered and the temporal relationship between vaccination and the onset of spinal joint symptoms.

• Ensure documentation explicitly states "postimmunization" and specifies the affected site as "vertebrae."
• Do not use for general post-vaccination malaise or non-arthritic musculoskeletal pain.
• Sequence this code after the primary diagnosis for the specific adverse effect, if applicable, and before any external cause codes for the immunization.