ICD-10 Code M00.02 – Staphylococcal arthritis, elbow (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code M00.02 – Staphylococcal arthritis, elbow
What it is
M00.02 identifies a bacterial joint infection in the elbow caused by Staphylococcus species. It is used when the elbow joint itself is affected by staphylococcal arthritis.
Clinical signs
Typical findings include an acutely painful, swollen, warm elbow with limited range of motion. Fever may occur, but clinical features vary; refer to documentation.
When to use this code
Use M00.02 when the provider documents staphylococcal arthritis specifically involving the elbow joint. Apply it for confirmed septic arthritis of the elbow due to Staphylococcus, including cases supported by culture or clear clinical documentation. Check documentation if the organism or joint site is not stated.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for noninfectious arthritis, cellulitis, bursitis, or pain in the elbow without joint infection. If another organism is documented, use the appropriate code instead.
Coding tip
Assign the code only when both the staphylococcal cause and elbow joint site are documented.