ICD-10 Code M00.022 – Staphylococcal arthritis, left elbow (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code M00.022 – Staphylococcal arthritis, left elbow
What it is
This code identifies a staphylococcal infection causing arthritis in the left elbow joint. Use it when documentation specifies the organism as Staphylococcus and the affected site as the left elbow.
Clinical signs
Typical findings include a painful, swollen, warm joint with reduced range of motion. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation for confirmed septic arthritis due to Staphylococcus.
When to use this code
Use M00.022 when the record clearly states staphylococcal arthritis involving the left elbow. It fits encounters where the provider documents septic or infectious arthritis and names Staphylococcus as the cause. If the organism or joint laterality is not confirmed, check documentation.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for arthritis of another joint, or when the infection is not documented as staphylococcal. Do not assign it if the chart only says “arthritis” or “joint pain” without infectious etiology.
Coding tip
Verify both the organism and laterality in the note before coding, because missing either detail can change the code.