ICD-10 Code M00.82 – Arthritis due to other bacteria, elbow (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code M00.82 – Arthritis due to other bacteria, elbow
What it is
This code identifies a bacterial infection causing arthritis in the elbow joint. Use it when the record specifies arthritis due to other bacteria, not a viral, fungal, or unspecified cause.
Clinical signs
Typical findings include an acutely painful, swollen, warm elbow with limited motion. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation for the organism, joint involvement, and evidence of infection.
When to use this code
Use M00.82 when the provider documents septic or infectious arthritis of the elbow caused by bacteria other than those assigned to a more specific code. It may appear with aspiration, culture, or imaging findings supporting bacterial joint infection. Code the elbow site only when clearly stated.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for noninfectious inflammatory arthritis, traumatic joint pain, or arthritis due to viral or fungal organisms. If the documentation does not identify the bacterial cause or the elbow site, check documentation.
Coding tip
Verify both the joint and the infectious cause in the note before assigning M00.82.