ICD-10 Code M00.862 – Arthritis due to other bacteria, left knee (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code M00.862 – Arthritis due to other bacteria, left knee
What it is
This code identifies septic arthritis of the left knee caused by bacteria other than the common organisms named in more specific codes. Use it when documentation clearly links the left knee joint infection to another bacterial cause.
Clinical signs
Typical findings include a painful, swollen, warm knee with limited range of motion and joint effusion. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation, and confirm the bacterial cause when available.
When to use this code
Use this code when the record states left knee arthritis due to another specified bacterium, or when the organism is documented as bacterial but not otherwise classified in a more specific code. It applies to the affected left knee only. Check documentation if laterality or organism is unclear.
Do not use for
Do not use it for noninfectious arthritis, gout, or unspecified knee pain. Do not assign it when the infection site, laterality, or bacterial cause is not documented clearly.
Coding tip
Match the code to both the left knee and the documented bacterial cause before assigning it.