ICD-10 Code M00.012 – Staphylococcal arthritis, left shoulder (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code M00.012 – Staphylococcal arthritis, left shoulder
What it is
This code identifies a staphylococcal infection of the left shoulder joint causing septic arthritis. Use it when documentation specifies the organism as Staphylococcus and the affected joint as the left shoulder.
Clinical signs
Typical findings include joint pain, swelling, warmth, and reduced range of motion. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation for evidence of acute infectious arthritis involving the left shoulder.
When to use this code
Use M00.012 when the provider documents staphylococcal septic arthritis of the left shoulder, whether confirmed by aspiration, culture, or clear clinical diagnosis. It also applies when the note names Staphylococcus as the causative organism and the left shoulder as the joint involved.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for noninfectious arthritis, unspecified shoulder arthritis, or septic arthritis without documented staphylococcal cause. Check documentation if the joint side or organism is not clearly stated.
Coding tip
Verify both the organism and laterality in the record before assigning M00.012.