ICD-10-CM Billable Code

M00.159

Pneumococcal arthritis, unspecified hip

Clinical Classification Guidelines

Medical Intelligence & Overview

Pneumococcal arthritis is an infection of the joint caused by the bacteria Streptococcus pneumoniae, commonly known as pneumococcus. When this infection affects the hip joint, it can lead to pain, swelling, and impaired movement. The ICD-10 code M00.159 specifically refers to pneumococcal arthritis of the unspecified hip, indicating that the infection involves the hip joint but the precise location or extent of the infection has not been specified. This condition requires prompt medical attention to prevent joint damage and maintain mobility.

Causes & Symptoms

Clinical Causes: Bacterial infection with Streptococcus pneumoniae (pneumococcus) Spread from other areas of the body via the bloodstream (hematogenous spread) Direct inoculation due to trauma or invasive procedures Pre-existing immune system compromise increasing susceptibility

Key Symptoms: Severe pain in the hip region Swelling and warmth around the affected joint Limited range of motion or inability to move the hip normally Fever and chills indicating systemic infection General feelings of malaise or fatigue

Diagnostic & Treatment

Diagnosis Path: Diagnosing pneumococcal arthritis typically involves a combination of clinical evaluation and laboratory tests. Medical practitioners may perform:

Treatment Protocols: Treatment strategies focus on eradicating the infection and preserving joint function. Common approaches include:

Reimbursement claims with a date of service on or after October 1, 2015 require the use of ICD-10-CM codes.

Clinical Advice & FAQs

Billing Guidance

Is M00.159 a billable ICD-10 code?
Yes, M00.159 is a specific, billable code that can be used to indicate a diagnosis for reimbursement purposes.

Documentation

How do I report M00.159?
Clinical documentation must specify the nature of Pneumococcal arthritis, unspecified hip and any associated comorbidities for accurate reporting.

Cite this Clinical Reference