ICD-10 Code M02.28 – Postimmunization arthropathy, vertebrae (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code M02.28 – Postimmunization arthropathy, vertebrae
What it is
M02.28 identifies joint inflammation affecting the vertebrae that occurs after immunization. Use it when documentation links the arthropathy directly to a vaccine reaction.
Clinical signs
Clinical features vary; refer to documentation. Typical findings may include vertebral joint pain, stiffness, and reduced spinal mobility after vaccination, with no better alternate explanation recorded.
When to use this code
Use this code when the provider documents postimmunization arthropathy involving the vertebrae. It is appropriate when the causal relationship to immunization is stated clearly in the record. Check documentation if the affected site or vaccine link is unclear.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for nonspecific back pain, unrelated arthritis, or general vaccine adverse effects without vertebral joint involvement. If the diagnosis is not documented as postimmunization arthropathy, select a different code.
Coding tip
Confirm both the postimmunization cause and the vertebral location in the provider’s note before assigning M02.28.