ICD-10 Code M00.029 – Staphylococcal arthritis, unspecified elbow (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code M00.029 – Staphylococcal arthritis, unspecified elbow
What it is
This code identifies staphylococcal infection of the elbow joint when the side is not specified. It is used for septic arthritis caused by Staphylococcus species, not for chronic or noninfectious joint disease.
Clinical signs
Typical findings include a painful, swollen, warm elbow with limited range of motion. Fever or systemic illness may occur, but clinical features vary; refer to documentation.
When to use this code
Use M00.029 when the provider documents staphylococcal arthritis involving the elbow and does not specify left or right. It also fits cases where the elbow joint infection is clearly attributed to Staphylococcus and laterality is absent. Check documentation if the record only says “septic arthritis” without the organism.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for noninfectious arthritis, osteomyelitis, or cellulitis around the elbow. If the organism, joint, or laterality is different, choose the documented code instead.
Coding tip
Verify both the causative organism and the elbow site, and code laterality separately only when documented.