ICD-10 Code M00.079 – Staphylococcal arthritis, unspecified ankle and foot (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code M00.079 – Staphylococcal arthritis, unspecified ankle and foot
What it is
This code identifies a staphylococcal infection causing arthritis in the ankle or foot, but the specific ankle or foot joint is not documented. Use it when the record confirms staphylococcal joint infection without further site detail.
Clinical signs
Typical findings include joint pain, swelling, warmth, and reduced range of motion. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation, especially when the joint is described as infected by Staphylococcus.
When to use this code
Use this code when the provider documents staphylococcal arthritis involving the ankle or foot and does not specify the exact joint. It also fits when the site is described only as ankle/foot arthritis with a staphylococcal cause. If laterality or a more specific joint is documented, code that detail instead.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for noninfectious arthritis, septic arthritis from another organism, or when the infection site is a different joint. Check documentation if the organism or anatomic location is unclear.
Coding tip
Code the organism and the anatomic site exactly as documented, and choose a more specific joint code if the record provides one.