Staphylococcal arthritis, left elbow

This code signifies an inflammatory joint condition of the left elbow caused by a Staphylococcus bacterial infection. It represents a septic arthritis specifically affecting the elbow joint on the patient's left side.

Apply this code when documentation clearly indicates a diagnosis of septic arthritis of the left elbow, with laboratory confirmation or strong clinical suspicion pointing to a staphylococcal etiology. This is appropriate for acute infections requiring treatment such as antibiotics and potentially surgical drainage.

• Ensure the documentation specifies both the infectious agent (Staphylococcus) and the affected joint (left elbow).
• Distinguish from other forms of infectious arthritis or non-infectious inflammatory arthropathies.
• Consider sequencing with codes for underlying conditions or complications, if applicable.