Arthritis due to other bacteria, vertebrae

This diagnosis code signifies an inflammatory joint condition affecting the vertebral column, specifically caused by a bacterial infection other than those typically associated with common septic arthritis (e.g., staphylococcus, streptococcus). It indicates a bacterial etiology for arthritis within the spine, distinct from autoimmune or degenerative causes.

Apply this code when documentation clearly states bacterial arthritis of the vertebrae, and the specific bacterial pathogen is identified as something other than the commonly coded bacteria (e.g., mycobacteria, brucella, or other less common bacterial species). Supporting documentation should include positive bacterial cultures from vertebral tissue or synovial fluid, or strong clinical evidence of a specific non-common bacterial infection.

• Ensure the documentation specifies "vertebrae" as the affected joint to differentiate from arthritis in other sites.
• Always look for documentation of the specific bacterial organism; if a more specific bacterial code exists, use that instead.
• This code requires a confirmed bacterial etiology; do not use for suspected or viral arthritis.