Infection of intvrt disc (pyogenic), occipt-atlan-ax region

This code signifies a bacterial or other purulent infection affecting the intervertebral disc specifically in the upper cervical spine, encompassing the articulation between the occiput, atlas (C1), and axis (C2). This condition often leads to severe pain, neurological deficits, and potential spinal instability in this critical region.

Use this code when documentation clearly indicates a pyogenic (pus-forming) infection of the intervertebral disc at the occipito-atlanto-axial level. This typically involves findings from imaging (e.g., MRI showing discitis with abscess formation), positive cultures, and clinical signs of infection localized to C0-C2.

• Ensure the documentation specifies "pyogenic" or "bacterial" infection and explicitly states the occipito-atlanto-axial region.
• Do not use for non-infectious disc disorders or infections in other spinal regions.
• Code any associated osteomyelitis (e.g., M46.21) or abscess formation (e.g., G06.1) separately, if documented.