ICD-10 Code M00.819 – Arthritis due to other bacteria, unspecified shoulder (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code M00.819 – Arthritis due to other bacteria, unspecified shoulder
What it is
This code identifies bacterial arthritis affecting the shoulder joint when the organism is not one of the specified categories and the side is not documented. It indicates an infectious joint process, not routine degenerative arthritis.
Clinical signs
Typical findings include acute joint pain, swelling, warmth, and limited shoulder motion. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation, and confirm that the provider identifies a bacterial cause.
When to use this code
Use M00.819 when the record documents arthritis of the shoulder caused by other bacteria and does not specify right or left shoulder. Code it from provider documentation, imaging, aspiration, or other workup supporting an infectious arthritis diagnosis. If the organism is named or the side is documented, choose the more specific code.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for noninfectious arthritis, such as osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis. Do not use it when the shoulder side is documented and a laterality-specific code is available.
Coding tip
Check the note for both the infectious cause and shoulder laterality before assigning M00.819.