ICD-10 Code M02.1 – Postdysenteric arthropathy (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code M02.1 – Postdysenteric arthropathy
What it is
M02.1 identifies reactive arthritis that occurs after dysentery, usually following an intestinal infection. It means the joint problem is linked to a prior gastrointestinal illness, not a primary joint disease.
Clinical signs
Typical findings include joint pain, swelling, and stiffness after a recent diarrheal illness. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation for the specific joints involved and any extra-articular findings.
When to use this code
Use M02.1 when the record clearly links the arthritis to a preceding dysenteric infection. You should have documentation of both the joint inflammation and the recent enteric illness. If the provider does not specify the postdysenteric relationship, check documentation before assigning this code.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for arthritis without a documented history of dysentery. It is also not for other reactive arthritides with different triggers unless the provider states postdysenteric arthropathy.
Coding tip
Code the infectious history only when the provider documents the causal link between dysentery and the arthropathy.