ICD-10 Code M00.0 – Staphylococcal arthritis and polyarthritis (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code M00.0 – Staphylococcal arthritis and polyarthritis
What it is
M00.0 identifies septic arthritis or polyarthritis caused by Staphylococcus species. Use it when the provider documents a staphylococcal joint infection affecting one or more joints.
Clinical signs
Typical findings include acute joint pain, swelling, warmth, and limited range of motion. Fever may occur, and clinical features vary; refer to documentation.
When to use this code
Use this code when the record clearly states staphylococcal arthritis, staphylococcal septic arthritis, or staphylococcal polyarthritis. It fits confirmed joint infection due to Staphylococcus, whether one joint or multiple joints are involved. Check documentation if the organism is not specified.
Do not use for
Do not use it for noninfectious inflammatory arthritis or for joint pain without documented infection. If the causative organism is different or unclear, code the documented condition instead.
Coding tip
Confirm both the infectious arthritis diagnosis and the staphylococcal cause before assigning M00.0.