2025 ICD-10-CM code A39.83

Meningococcal arthritis.

Code A39.83 is used for primary meningococcal arthritis, which occurs without meningitis or meningococcal sepsis. If the arthritis is secondary to another meningococcal condition, the underlying condition should be coded first.

The medical necessity for services related to A39.83 is established by the diagnosis of meningococcal arthritis. The documentation should clearly support the diagnosis and the need for the provided services, like antibiotic treatment, pain management, or other interventions.

Diagnosis of meningococcal arthritis involves evaluating the patient's history, symptoms, and conducting a physical exam. Laboratory tests, such as blood and synovial fluid cultures, help confirm the presence of the bacteria. Imaging studies like X-rays and arthroscopy may also be performed. Treatment typically includes antibiotics, corticosteroids, and other supportive measures.

In simple words: Meningococcal arthritis is a type of joint inflammation caused by the same bacteria that causes meningitis.It can cause joint pain, swelling, limited movement, and warmth in the affected area.It's spread through close contact like coughing or kissing.

Meningococcal arthritis is an inflammation of the joints caused by Neisseria meningitidis, the bacteria responsible for meningococcal disease. This serious infection can be transmitted through close contact with an infected person.

Example 1: A 10-year-old child presents with fever, joint pain, swelling, and limited range of motion in their knee. After a thorough examination and laboratory tests, they are diagnosed with meningococcal arthritis., A young adult experiences sudden onset of joint pain and swelling in their ankle a few days after recovering from a meningococcal infection. This secondary arthritis is attributed to the previous infection., An infant with a history of upper respiratory infection develops painful and swollen joints, along with a rash. Further investigation reveals meningococcal arthritis as the cause.

Documentation for A39.83 should include details of the patient's symptoms (joint pain, swelling, limited range of motion, fever), physical examination findings, laboratory results (positive culture for N. meningitidis), and imaging reports if any (X-rays, arthroscopy). It is crucial to document the affected joint(s). Any related conditions, like a recent upper respiratory infection or meningococcal infection, should also be noted.

  • Specialties:Infectious Disease, Rheumatology, Pediatrics, Orthopedics
  • Place of Service:Inpatient Hospital, Emergency Room - Hospital, Office, Outpatient Hospital
** Only Enterprise users with EHR integration can access case-specific answers. Click here to request access.