ICD-10 Code M01.X8 – Direct infection of vertebrae in infectious and parasitic diseases classified elsewhere (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code M01.X8 – Direct infection of vertebrae in infectious and parasitic diseases classified elsewhere
What it is
This code identifies vertebral infection caused directly by an infectious or parasitic disease classified elsewhere. Use it when the vertebral involvement is documented as secondary to another specified infection.
Clinical signs
Clinical features vary; refer to documentation. Typical findings may include localized spinal pain, tenderness, fever, or imaging evidence of vertebral infection, but the record should confirm the underlying infectious or parasitic cause.
When to use this code
Use M01.X8 when the provider documents direct infection of the vertebrae and links it to an infectious or parasitic disease classified elsewhere. Code the underlying infection first, then this manifestation when the record supports that relationship.
This code is appropriate for charted vertebral involvement that is not coded as a primary spine disorder. Check documentation if the note does not clearly state the causal infection or if the vertebral site is not specified.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for nonspecific back pain, degenerative spine disease, or vertebral infection without a documented infectious or parasitic cause. Check documentation if the condition is described differently.
Coding tip
Verify the underlying infection is documented and sequence it before M01.X8 when the manifestation rules apply.