Discitis, unspecified, lumbar region

This code signifies inflammation of an intervertebral disc in the lumbar spine, where the specific cause of the inflammation has not been identified. It indicates an infectious or inflammatory process affecting the disc space in the lower back without further etiological detail.

Apply this code when documentation clearly states "discitis of the lumbar region" but does not specify the infectious agent (e.g., bacterial, fungal) or whether it's infectious versus non-infectious. It is appropriate when the provider has diagnosed discitis in the lower back but further diagnostic workup is pending or inconclusive.

• Do not use this code if the infectious agent is known; instead, code to a more specific discitis code that includes the organism.
• Always review documentation for laterality if specified, though discitis is typically a central finding.
• Consider sequencing with codes for associated symptoms (e.g., low back pain, radiculopathy) if they are not integral to the discitis diagnosis.