ICD-10 Code M00.21 – Other streptococcal arthritis, shoulder (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code M00.21 – Other streptococcal arthritis, shoulder
What it is
M00.21 identifies a streptococcal infection of the shoulder joint causing septic arthritis. Use it when documentation specifies a streptococcal organism, but not a more specific streptococcal category.
Clinical signs
Typical findings include a painful, swollen, warm shoulder with limited range of motion. Fever or systemic illness may occur, but clinical features vary; refer to documentation.
When to use this code
Use this code when the provider documents other streptococcal septic arthritis affecting the shoulder, such as after aspiration, culture, or clear clinical diagnosis. It applies only when the shoulder joint is the site and streptococcal etiology is stated. Check documentation if the organism is not fully specified.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for arthritis caused by other organisms, noninfectious shoulder arthritis, or unspecified septic arthritis. If the record does not confirm streptococcal infection, check documentation.
Coding tip
Capture both the joint site and the documented streptococcal cause; either missing detail can change the code choice.