Osteomyelitis of vertebra, thoracolumbar region

This diagnosis code signifies an infection of the vertebral bone in the thoracolumbar spine, specifically affecting the thoracic and/or lumbar segments. This inflammatory condition is typically caused by bacterial or fungal pathogens and can lead to bone destruction, spinal instability, and neurological compromise.

Apply this code when documentation explicitly states osteomyelitis involving any vertebra from T1 to L5. This includes cases confirmed by imaging (e.g., MRI, CT) showing vertebral body destruction, disc space narrowing, and inflammatory changes, often accompanied by positive blood cultures or biopsy results.

• Specify the infectious agent with an additional code (e.g., B95-B97) if known.
• Differentiate from discitis without osteomyelitis, which is coded differently.
• Ensure documentation clearly identifies the thoracolumbar region; avoid using for cervical or sacral involvement.