ICD-10 Code M00.83 – Arthritis due to other bacteria, wrist (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code M00.83 – Arthritis due to other bacteria, wrist
What it is
M00.83 identifies septic arthritis of the wrist caused by bacteria other than the specific organisms named in other ICD-10 codes. Use it when the provider documents bacterial joint infection involving the wrist.
Clinical signs
Typical findings include a painful, swollen, warm wrist with limited range of motion. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation for the causative bacteria and whether the infection is acute or confirmed by aspiration or culture.
When to use this code
Use this code when the record clearly states bacterial arthritis of the wrist and the organism is documented as “other bacteria” or a non-specific bacterial cause. It also fits confirmed septic arthritis affecting the wrist when the provider specifies this code category. Check documentation if the organism is not identified.
Do not use for
Do not use it for noninfectious arthritis, gout, or rheumatoid arthritis. Also avoid it when the infection site is not the wrist or when the record names a different organism-specific septic arthritis code.
Coding tip
Verify both the joint site and the bacterial cause in the provider note before assigning M00.83.