ICD-10 Code M00.08 – Staphylococcal arthritis, vertebrae (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code M00.08 – Staphylococcal arthritis, vertebrae
What it is
M00.08 identifies a staphylococcal infection causing arthritis in the vertebrae. Use it when the record documents staphylococcal involvement of the spinal joint or vertebral area.
Clinical signs
Clinical features vary; refer to documentation. Typical findings may include localized spinal pain, tenderness, reduced motion, and evidence of joint infection attributed to Staphylococcus.
When to use this code
Use this code when the provider specifically documents staphylococcal arthritis affecting the vertebrae. It may apply when imaging, aspiration, or operative findings support vertebral joint infection and the organism is stated as Staphylococcus.
If the note only says septic arthritis, spinal infection, or osteomyelitis without vertebral arthritis and organism detail, check documentation before assigning M00.08. Code the documented site and organism exactly as recorded.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for nonstaphylococcal arthritis, unspecified septic arthritis, or vertebral osteomyelitis alone. Check documentation if the infection site or causative organism is unclear.
Coding tip
Verify both the organism and the vertebral joint site in the provider note before coding M00.08.