ICD-10 Code M02.22 – Postimmunization arthropathy, elbow (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code M02.22 – Postimmunization arthropathy, elbow
What it is
M02.22 identifies joint inflammation in the elbow that occurs after immunization. Use it when the record links the arthropathy to a vaccine reaction rather than to infection, trauma, or a chronic joint disease.
Clinical signs
Typical findings include elbow pain, swelling, stiffness, and limited range of motion after a recent immunization. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation for the timing and confirmed relationship to vaccination.
When to use this code
Use this code when the provider documents postimmunization arthropathy affecting the elbow and clearly attributes the condition to a vaccine. It is appropriate for encounter notes describing reactive joint symptoms after immunization, with the elbow specifically named. Check documentation if the affected joint or cause is unclear.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for general post-vaccination soreness without documented arthropathy. Also avoid it when the elbow symptoms are due to injury, infection, or another diagnosed arthritic condition.
Coding tip
Confirm both the postimmunization cause and the elbow site in the provider’s documentation before assigning M02.22.