ICD-10 Code M00.821 – Arthritis due to other bacteria, right elbow (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code M00.821 – Arthritis due to other bacteria, right elbow
What it is
This code identifies a bacterial infection causing inflammation in the right elbow joint. Use it when documentation specifies arthritis due to bacteria other than the common excluded organisms.
Clinical signs
Typical findings include a painful, swollen, warm joint with reduced range of motion. Fever or systemic illness may occur, but clinical features vary; refer to documentation.
When to use this code
Use M00.821 when the provider documents septic or infectious arthritis of the right elbow caused by other bacteria. It is appropriate when the organism is identified as bacterial and the laterality is clearly right. Check documentation if the record only says “arthritis” without infectious cause.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for noninfectious arthritis, such as osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis. Do not assign it when the organism is viral, fungal, or unspecified; check documentation.
Coding tip
Confirm both the infectious cause and right-sided joint involvement before coding.