ICD-10 Code M00.00 – Staphylococcal arthritis, unspecified joint (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code M00.00 – Staphylococcal arthritis, unspecified joint
What it is
M00.00 identifies an acute joint infection caused by Staphylococcus when the affected joint is not specified. Use it for documented staphylococcal septic arthritis involving an unspecified joint.
Clinical signs
Typical findings include joint pain, swelling, warmth, tenderness, and limited range of motion. Fever may occur, but clinical features vary; refer to documentation.
When to use this code
Use this code when the provider documents staphylococcal arthritis and does not name the joint involved. It also fits when the record confirms a staphylococcal joint infection but the site remains unspecified in the note.
If laterality or a specific joint is documented, code to the more specific option instead. Check documentation for organism confirmation and whether the condition is acute septic arthritis versus another joint disorder.
Do not use for
Do not use for noninfectious arthritis, chronic arthropathy, or joint pain without infection. Do not use if the organism is not Staphylococcus or the provider identifies a different joint site.
Coding tip
Verify that both the staphylococcal cause and the unspecified joint are documented before assigning M00.00.