ICD-10: M71.1

ICD-10 code M71.1 refers to "Other infective bursitis," a condition characterized by inflammation of the bursa due to infection. Bursae are small, fluid-filled sacs that act as cushions between bones and soft tissues, such as muscles, tendons, and skin. When these sacs become infected, it can lead to pain, swelling, and limited mobility in the affected area.

Clinical Description

Definition

Infective bursitis occurs when a bursa becomes inflamed due to bacterial, viral, or fungal infections. The condition can arise from direct trauma, overuse, or the presence of foreign bodies, which may introduce pathogens into the bursa.

Symptoms

Patients with infective bursitis typically present with:
- Localized pain: Often exacerbated by movement or pressure on the affected area.
- Swelling: The bursa may appear enlarged and tender to the touch.
- Redness and warmth: The skin over the bursa may exhibit signs of inflammation.
- Limited range of motion: Due to pain and swelling, patients may find it difficult to move the joint associated with the affected bursa.

Common Sites

Infective bursitis can occur in various locations, but it is most commonly seen in:
- The shoulder (subacromial bursitis)
- The elbow (olecranon bursitis)
- The hip (trochanteric bursitis)
- The knee (prepatellar bursitis)

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of infective bursitis typically involves:
- Clinical evaluation: A thorough history and physical examination to assess symptoms and identify the affected bursa.
- Imaging studies: Ultrasound or MRI may be used to visualize the bursa and assess for fluid accumulation or other abnormalities.
- Laboratory tests: Aspiration of bursal fluid may be performed to analyze for the presence of infection, including bacterial cultures and white blood cell counts.

Treatment

Management of infective bursitis may include:
- Antibiotics: If a bacterial infection is confirmed, appropriate antibiotic therapy is initiated.
- Rest and immobilization: Reducing activity can help alleviate symptoms and promote healing.
- Ice therapy: Applying ice packs can reduce swelling and pain.
- Corticosteroid injections: In some cases, corticosteroids may be injected into the bursa to reduce inflammation.

Prognosis

The prognosis for patients with infective bursitis is generally favorable, especially with prompt diagnosis and treatment. However, complications can arise if the infection is not adequately addressed, potentially leading to chronic bursitis or systemic infection.

In summary, ICD-10 code M71.1 captures the clinical essence of other infective bursitis, emphasizing the importance of timely diagnosis and appropriate management to ensure optimal patient outcomes.

The ICD-10 code M71.1 refers to "Other infective bursitis," a condition characterized by inflammation of the bursa due to infection. Understanding the clinical presentation, signs, symptoms, and patient characteristics associated with this condition is crucial for accurate diagnosis and management.

Clinical Presentation

Infective bursitis typically presents with localized swelling and pain in the affected area. The bursa, which is a small fluid-filled sac that reduces friction between tissues, can become inflamed due to various infectious agents, including bacteria, viruses, or fungi. The most commonly affected bursae include those around the shoulder, elbow, hip, and knee.

Signs and Symptoms

1. Localized Pain: Patients often report significant pain at the site of the affected bursa, which may worsen with movement or pressure.
2. Swelling: There is usually noticeable swelling over the bursa, which may feel warm to the touch.
3. Redness and Heat: The skin over the inflamed bursa may appear red and feel warm, indicating an inflammatory response.
4. Limited Range of Motion: Patients may experience restricted movement in the joint adjacent to the affected bursa due to pain and swelling.
5. Systemic Symptoms: In cases of severe infection, patients may present with systemic symptoms such as fever, chills, and malaise, indicating a more widespread infection.

Patient Characteristics

Certain patient characteristics may predispose individuals to develop infective bursitis:

• Age: Older adults are more susceptible due to age-related changes in the immune system and joint structures.
• Underlying Conditions: Patients with diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, or other immunocompromising conditions are at higher risk for infections, including bursitis.
• Recent Trauma or Surgery: A history of trauma or surgical procedures near the bursa can increase the risk of infection.
• Occupational Hazards: Individuals engaged in repetitive activities or occupations that put stress on specific joints (e.g., construction workers, athletes) may be more prone to developing bursitis.
• Skin Infections: Pre-existing skin infections or conditions (like eczema or psoriasis) can also lead to secondary bursitis.

Conclusion

Infective bursitis, coded as M71.1 in the ICD-10 classification, presents with distinct clinical features, including localized pain, swelling, and potential systemic symptoms. Understanding the signs and symptoms, along with recognizing patient characteristics that may predispose individuals to this condition, is essential for healthcare providers in diagnosing and managing infective bursitis effectively. Early intervention can help prevent complications and improve patient outcomes.

ICD-10 code M71.1 refers specifically to "Other infective bursitis." This condition involves inflammation of the bursa, which is a small fluid-filled sac that acts as a cushion between bones and soft tissues, often due to infection. Understanding alternative names and related terms can help in clinical documentation, coding, and communication among healthcare professionals.

Alternative Names for M71.1

1. Infective Bursitis: This term is a more general descriptor that encompasses any bursitis caused by an infection, including those classified under M71.1.
2. Bursal Infection: This term emphasizes the infectious nature of the condition affecting the bursa.
3. Septic Bursitis: This term is often used to describe bursitis that is specifically caused by bacterial infection, highlighting the presence of pus or systemic infection.
4. Bursitis Due to Infection: A straightforward description that indicates the cause of the bursitis.

Related Terms

1. Bursitis: A general term for inflammation of the bursa, which can be caused by various factors, including infection, trauma, or repetitive motion.
2. Non-infective Bursitis: This term refers to bursitis that is not caused by an infection, contrasting with M71.1.
3. Acute Bursitis: This term can be used when the bursitis presents suddenly and is often associated with infection.
4. Chronic Bursitis: While not directly related to M71.1, chronic bursitis can occur after an initial infection has resolved, leading to ongoing inflammation.

Clinical Context

In clinical practice, accurate coding and terminology are crucial for effective communication and treatment planning. The use of alternative names and related terms can aid healthcare providers in identifying the specific nature of the bursitis, which is essential for determining the appropriate management and treatment strategies.

In summary, while M71.1 specifically denotes "Other infective bursitis," understanding its alternative names and related terms enhances clarity in medical documentation and facilitates better patient care.

Infective bursitis, classified under ICD-10 code M71.1, refers to inflammation of the bursa due to infection. This condition can lead to significant discomfort and functional impairment, necessitating effective treatment strategies. Below, we explore standard treatment approaches for managing infective bursitis.

Understanding Infective Bursitis

Bursae are small, fluid-filled sacs that cushion bones, tendons, and muscles near joints. When these sacs become infected, it can result in pain, swelling, and limited mobility. Common sites for bursitis include the shoulder, elbow, hip, and knee. The infection may arise from direct trauma, systemic infections, or conditions like rheumatoid arthritis or diabetes that predispose individuals to infections[1][2].

Standard Treatment Approaches

1. Antibiotic Therapy

The cornerstone of treatment for infective bursitis is antibiotic therapy. The choice of antibiotics depends on the suspected or confirmed causative organism. Common pathogens include Staphylococcus aureus, including methicillin-resistant strains (MRSA), and Streptococcus species. Empirical treatment often starts with broad-spectrum antibiotics, which can be adjusted based on culture results[3][4].

• Initial Antibiotics: Commonly prescribed antibiotics may include:
• Cephalexin for non-MRSA infections.
• Clindamycin or Trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole for suspected MRSA infections.

2. Drainage of the Bursa

In cases where there is significant fluid accumulation or abscess formation, aspiration or drainage of the bursa may be necessary. This procedure not only relieves pressure and pain but also allows for the collection of fluid for culture and sensitivity testing, which can guide further antibiotic therapy[5][6].

3. Pain Management

Pain relief is crucial in managing symptoms associated with infective bursitis. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen or naproxen can help reduce pain and inflammation. In more severe cases, corticosteroid injections may be considered to provide rapid relief[7][8].

4. Rest and Activity Modification

Resting the affected joint is essential to facilitate healing. Patients are often advised to avoid activities that exacerbate symptoms. Gradual reintroduction of movement and physical therapy may be recommended once the acute phase has resolved to restore function and strength[9].

5. Surgical Intervention

In rare cases where conservative management fails, or if there is a recurrent infection, surgical intervention may be necessary. This could involve the removal of the infected bursa (bursectomy) or addressing any underlying conditions that predispose to recurrent infections[10].

Conclusion

Infective bursitis, represented by ICD-10 code M71.1, requires a multifaceted treatment approach that includes antibiotic therapy, drainage of infected fluid, pain management, and activity modification. Early intervention is crucial to prevent complications and ensure a swift recovery. If symptoms persist despite treatment, further evaluation and potential surgical options should be considered. Always consult a healthcare professional for personalized medical advice tailored to individual circumstances.

The ICD-10 code M71.1 refers to "Other infective bursitis," which encompasses various types of bursitis caused by infectious agents. Diagnosing this condition involves a combination of clinical evaluation, patient history, and specific diagnostic criteria. Below is a detailed overview of the criteria typically used for diagnosing infective bursitis under this code.

Clinical Presentation

Symptoms

Patients with infective bursitis often present with the following symptoms:
- Localized Pain: Pain in the affected area, which may worsen with movement.
- Swelling: Noticeable swelling over the bursa, which may feel warm to the touch.
- Redness: Erythema (redness) of the skin over the bursa.
- Limited Range of Motion: Difficulty moving the joint associated with the affected bursa due to pain and swelling.
- Systemic Symptoms: In some cases, patients may experience fever, chills, or malaise, indicating a systemic infection.

Physical Examination

A thorough physical examination is crucial for diagnosis. Key aspects include:
- Palpation: Assessing the bursa for tenderness, warmth, and swelling.
- Range of Motion Testing: Evaluating the joint's range of motion to identify limitations caused by pain or swelling.

Diagnostic Tests

Imaging Studies

Imaging can help confirm the diagnosis and rule out other conditions:
- Ultrasound: Useful for visualizing fluid accumulation in the bursa and assessing the extent of inflammation.
- MRI: Provides detailed images of soft tissues and can help identify associated conditions, such as tendon injuries or joint effusions.

Laboratory Tests

To confirm an infectious etiology, the following tests may be performed:
- Aspiration of Bursa: A needle may be used to withdraw fluid from the bursa for analysis. This fluid can be sent for:
- Culture: To identify the specific infectious organism (bacterial, fungal, etc.).
- Gram Stain: To quickly assess the presence of bacteria.
- Cell Count and Differential: To evaluate the inflammatory response.
- Blood Tests: Complete blood count (CBC) may show elevated white blood cell counts, indicating infection.

Differential Diagnosis

It is essential to differentiate infective bursitis from other conditions that may present similarly, such as:
- Non-infective bursitis: Caused by trauma or repetitive motion.
- Septic arthritis: Infection within the joint itself, which may require different management.
- Tendonitis: Inflammation of the tendons near the bursa.

Conclusion

The diagnosis of infective bursitis (ICD-10 code M71.1) relies on a combination of clinical symptoms, physical examination findings, imaging studies, and laboratory tests. Accurate diagnosis is crucial for effective treatment, which may include antibiotics for infection and possibly surgical intervention if there is significant fluid accumulation or abscess formation. If you suspect infective bursitis, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional for a comprehensive evaluation and appropriate management.