Pneumococcal arthritis, left shoulder

This diagnosis code signifies an inflammatory joint condition affecting the left shoulder, specifically caused by Streptococcus pneumoniae bacteria. It indicates an infection of the synovial fluid and joint tissues, leading to pain, swelling, and restricted movement in the affected shoulder.

Apply this code when documentation clearly states a diagnosis of pneumococcal arthritis localized to the left shoulder. This typically occurs following a positive culture for S. pneumoniae from joint aspirate or blood, in conjunction with clinical signs of arthritis. Use this code when the infection is confirmed to be bacterial and specifically due to pneumococcus.

• Ensure documentation specifies "pneumococcal" and not just "bacterial" arthritis, as other bacterial causes have different codes.
• Verify laterality (left shoulder) is clearly documented; codes exist for right, bilateral, and unspecified shoulders.
• Consider sequencing this code as the primary diagnosis if it is the reason for the encounter, followed by any associated systemic infections.