Pneumococcal arthritis, right hand

This code signifies an inflammatory joint condition affecting the right hand, specifically caused by Streptococcus pneumoniae bacteria. It represents an acute or chronic infection of the synovial membrane and joint structures, leading to pain, swelling, and reduced function in the affected hand.

Use this code when documentation clearly indicates a diagnosis of arthritis in the right hand, and laboratory findings or clinical assessment confirm Pneumococcal as the causative organism. This typically applies to patients presenting with acute onset joint pain, warmth, and swelling, with positive joint fluid cultures or other diagnostic tests for S. pneumoniae.

• Ensure documentation specifies "right hand" to support laterality.
• Confirm the infectious agent is Pneumococcal; differentiate from other bacterial or non-infectious arthropathies.
• Consider sequencing this code after a code for the underlying infection if it's still active and being treated.