ICD-10 Code M02.8 – Other reactive arthropathies (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code M02.8 – Other reactive arthropathies
What it is
M02.8 identifies reactive arthropathy that does not fit a more specific ICD-10 category. Use it for joint inflammation linked to a prior infection when the record does not name a better reactive arthropathy code.
Clinical signs
Typical findings include painful, swollen, and stiff joints, often affecting the lower limbs. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation for the infection trigger and the joints involved.
When to use this code
Use M02.8 when the provider documents reactive arthropathy but does not specify a narrower subtype. It is also appropriate when the chart supports a postinfectious inflammatory arthritis and no other M02 code is documented.
Code the condition only when the diagnosis is established in the record. If the note instead describes another inflammatory arthritis, infection-related joint pain, or an unspecified arthropathy, check documentation before assigning M02.8.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for septic arthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, gout, or other clearly identified arthropathies. If the provider documents a different reactive arthropathy subtype, choose the more specific code.
Coding tip
Confirm both the reactive nature and the absence of a more specific subtype before coding M02.8.