Other infective bursitis, left elbow

This code signifies an inflammatory condition of the bursa located in the left elbow, specifically caused by an infection. It indicates that the bursa, a fluid-filled sac that cushions joints, has become inflamed due to bacterial, viral, or fungal pathogens, affecting the patient's left olecranon or other elbow bursae.

Apply this code when documentation clearly states "infective bursitis" of the left elbow, excluding specific types like tuberculous or syphilitic bursitis. Supporting documentation should include a confirmed diagnosis of infection (e.g., positive culture, clinical signs of infection) and laterality specified as left.

• Ensure documentation specifies "infective" to differentiate from non-infective bursitis (e.g., M70.322).
• Verify laterality; do not use for right elbow (M71.121) or unspecified elbow (M71.129).
• Code any underlying systemic infection or causative organism as an additional diagnosis, if known and documented.