Other infective (teno)synovitis, other site

This code signifies inflammation of a tendon sheath (tenosynovitis) or the synovial membrane lining a joint (synovitis) due to an infectious process, occurring in an anatomical location other than those specified by more precise codes. It indicates an infection-driven inflammatory response affecting the connective tissue surrounding tendons or within joints.

Apply this code when documentation clearly states infective tenosynovitis or synovitis in a site not covered by more specific ICD-10-CM codes (e.g., hand, foot, wrist). This diagnosis is supported by physician notes detailing signs of infection (e.g., purulence, fever, elevated inflammatory markers) alongside localized inflammation of a tendon sheath or joint lining.

• Ensure the documentation specifies "infective" or "septic" to differentiate from non-infectious inflammatory conditions.
• Always check for more specific site codes (e.g., M65.14- for hand, M65.17- for ankle/foot) before defaulting to "other site."
• Code the underlying infectious agent (e.g., B95.-, B96.-) as an additional diagnosis if known and documented.