Other streptococcal arthritis, left hand

This code signifies an inflammatory joint condition affecting the left hand, specifically caused by a streptococcal bacterial infection, but not classified as a primary or post-infective reactive arthritis. It indicates the presence of an active infection within the joint space.

Apply this code when documentation confirms streptococcal arthritis localized to the left hand, and the infection is not explicitly identified as a primary pyogenic arthritis or a reactive arthropathy. Supporting documentation should include positive streptococcal cultures from synovial fluid or blood, or strong clinical evidence of streptococcal infection with left hand joint involvement.

• Ensure documentation specifies "other" streptococcal arthritis to differentiate from primary pyogenic or post-infective reactive forms.
• Always confirm the laterality (left hand) is clearly stated in the medical record.
• Code an additional code for the specific streptococcal infection (e.g., B95.0-B95.5) as a secondary diagnosis to fully describe the etiology.