ICD-10: M71.18

Clinical Presentation of Other Infective Bursitis (ICD-10 Code M71.18)

Other infective bursitis, classified under ICD-10 code M71.18, refers to inflammation of a bursa due to infection at sites not specifically categorized under other bursitis codes. Understanding the clinical presentation, signs, symptoms, and patient characteristics associated with this condition is crucial for accurate diagnosis and management.

Signs and Symptoms

1. Localized Pain and Tenderness:
   - Patients typically experience localized pain over the affected bursa, which may worsen with movement or pressure. The pain can be sharp or throbbing and is often accompanied by tenderness upon palpation of the area[1].

2. Swelling and Inflammation:
   - The affected area may exhibit noticeable swelling, which can be due to fluid accumulation in the bursa. This swelling is often accompanied by redness and warmth, indicating an inflammatory response[1][2].

3. Limited Range of Motion:
   - Patients may have difficulty moving the joint adjacent to the inflamed bursa due to pain and swelling. This limitation can significantly affect daily activities and overall mobility[2].

4. Systemic Symptoms:
   - In some cases, patients may present with systemic symptoms such as fever, chills, and malaise, particularly if the infection is more severe or systemic in nature. These symptoms suggest a more widespread infection or inflammatory response[1][3].

5. Pus Formation:
   - In cases of bacterial bursitis, there may be the presence of pus, which can be observed if the bursa is aspirated. This finding is indicative of an infectious process and may require drainage[2].

Patient Characteristics

1. Demographics:
   - Infective bursitis can occur in individuals of any age, but it is more commonly seen in adults, particularly those over 50 years old. The condition may also be more prevalent in individuals with certain risk factors, such as diabetes or immunocompromised states[3].

2. Underlying Conditions:
   - Patients with pre-existing conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, gout, or other inflammatory joint diseases may be at higher risk for developing bursitis due to increased joint stress and inflammation[1][3].

3. Occupational and Lifestyle Factors:
   - Certain occupations or activities that involve repetitive motion or prolonged pressure on joints (e.g., construction work, gardening) can predispose individuals to bursitis. Athletes, particularly those involved in sports that require repetitive shoulder or elbow movements, may also be at risk[2].

4. Infection History:
   - A history of skin infections or recent trauma to the area can increase the likelihood of developing infective bursitis. Additionally, patients with a history of joint injections or surgeries may also be at risk due to potential contamination[3].

5. Comorbidities:
   - Conditions such as obesity, chronic kidney disease, or other systemic illnesses can contribute to the development of bursitis by affecting the body’s inflammatory response and healing processes[1][2].

Conclusion

In summary, ICD-10 code M71.18 encompasses a range of clinical presentations associated with other infective bursitis. Key signs and symptoms include localized pain, swelling, limited range of motion, and potential systemic symptoms. Patient characteristics often include age, underlying health conditions, occupational factors, and a history of infections. Recognizing these elements is essential for healthcare providers to ensure timely diagnosis and appropriate treatment for affected individuals.

ICD-10 code M71.18 refers to "Other infective bursitis, other site." This code is part of the broader category of bursitis, which is inflammation of the bursa, a small fluid-filled sac that acts as a cushion between bones and soft tissues. Below are alternative names and related terms associated with this specific ICD-10 code.

Alternative Names for M71.18

1. Infective Bursitis: This term broadly describes inflammation of the bursa due to infection, which can occur in various locations in the body.
2. Bursitis, Infective: A straightforward alternative that emphasizes the infectious nature of the condition.
3. Bursitis, Other: This term can be used to denote bursitis that does not fall under more specific categories, such as those affecting common sites like the shoulder or hip.

Related Terms

1. Bursopathy: A general term that refers to any disease or disorder of the bursa, which includes bursitis.
2. Septic Bursitis: This term specifically refers to bursitis caused by bacterial infection, highlighting the infectious aspect of the condition.
3. Non-specific Bursitis: This term may be used when the exact cause of the bursitis is not identified, which can include infectious causes.
4. Bursa Inflammation: A broader term that encompasses any inflammation of the bursa, whether infectious or non-infectious.
5. Localized Infection of Bursa: This term describes the infection localized to a specific bursa, which may not be specified in the code.

Clinical Context

In clinical practice, M71.18 is used when documenting cases of bursitis that are not classified under more specific codes, such as those for bursitis in common sites like the shoulder (M75.5) or hip (M70.0). The "other site" designation indicates that the infection is occurring in a bursa that is not typically referenced in standard classifications.

Understanding these alternative names and related terms is crucial for accurate coding, billing, and communication among healthcare providers, ensuring that patients receive appropriate care for their specific conditions.

Infective bursitis, classified under ICD-10 code M71.18, refers to inflammation of a bursa due to infection at sites other than the commonly affected areas like the shoulder or hip. This condition can lead to significant discomfort and functional impairment, necessitating a comprehensive treatment approach. Below, we explore standard treatment strategies 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. The infection may arise from direct trauma, systemic infections, or conditions that compromise the immune system.

Standard Treatment Approaches

1. Initial Assessment and Diagnosis

Before treatment begins, a thorough assessment is crucial. This typically includes:

• Clinical Evaluation: A healthcare provider will assess symptoms such as pain, swelling, and redness around the affected area.
• Imaging Studies: X-rays or ultrasound may be used to rule out other conditions and to visualize the bursa.
• Laboratory Tests: Aspiration of the bursa may be performed to analyze the fluid for the presence of bacteria or other pathogens.

2. Antibiotic Therapy

If the bursitis is confirmed to be infectious, antibiotic treatment is essential. The choice of antibiotics may depend on the suspected organism:

• Empirical Therapy: Broad-spectrum antibiotics may be initiated based on the most common pathogens associated with bursitis, such as Staphylococcus aureus.
• Targeted Therapy: Once culture results are available, antibiotics can be adjusted to target specific bacteria.

3. Pain Management

Managing pain is a critical component of treatment. Options include:

• Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs): Medications like ibuprofen or naproxen can help reduce pain and inflammation.
• Corticosteroids: In some cases, corticosteroid injections may be administered to alleviate severe inflammation.

4. Physical Therapy

Once the acute infection is under control, physical therapy may be recommended to restore function and strength. This can include:

• Range of Motion Exercises: Gentle stretching and strengthening exercises to improve mobility.
• Therapeutic Modalities: Techniques such as ultrasound or electrical stimulation may be used to promote healing.

5. Surgical Intervention

In cases where conservative treatments fail or if there is an abscess formation, surgical intervention may be necessary:

• Bursa Drainage: Surgical drainage of the infected bursa may be performed to remove pus and relieve pressure.
• Bursa Excision: In chronic cases, excision of the bursa may be considered to prevent recurrence.

6. Follow-Up Care

Regular follow-up is important to monitor recovery and prevent complications. This may involve:

• Reassessment of Symptoms: Evaluating the effectiveness of treatment and making adjustments as needed.
• Continued Physical Therapy: Ongoing rehabilitation to ensure full recovery and prevent future issues.

Conclusion

Infective bursitis, particularly at sites classified under ICD-10 code M71.18, requires a multifaceted treatment approach that includes antibiotics, pain management, physical therapy, and possibly surgical intervention. Early diagnosis and appropriate management are crucial to prevent complications and ensure a successful recovery. If you suspect you have infective bursitis, it is important to consult a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and tailored treatment plan.

The ICD-10 code M71.18 refers to "Other infective bursitis, other site." This classification is part of the broader category of bursitis, which is an inflammation of the bursa, a small fluid-filled sac that acts as a cushion between bones and soft tissues. Understanding the criteria for diagnosing this condition involves several key components, including clinical evaluation, imaging studies, and laboratory tests.

Diagnostic Criteria for M71.18

1. Clinical Evaluation

• Symptoms: Patients typically present with localized pain, swelling, and tenderness over the affected bursa. Symptoms may also include warmth and redness in the area, which can indicate an infectious process.
• History: A thorough medical history is essential. This includes any previous episodes of bursitis, recent injuries, or underlying conditions such as diabetes or rheumatoid arthritis that may predispose the patient to infections.

2. Physical Examination

• Inspection and Palpation: The healthcare provider will examine the affected area for signs of inflammation, such as swelling and tenderness. Palpation may reveal a fluctuant mass if there is an accumulation of pus.
• Range of Motion: Assessing the range of motion in the adjacent joints can help determine the extent of the bursitis and any functional limitations.

3. Imaging Studies

• Ultrasound: This is often the first imaging modality used to assess bursitis. It can help visualize fluid accumulation in the bursa and differentiate between infectious and non-infectious causes.
• MRI: In more complex cases, MRI may be utilized to provide detailed images of the bursa and surrounding tissues, helping to identify any associated complications such as abscess formation.

4. Laboratory Tests

• Aspiration and Culture: If an infectious bursitis is suspected, aspiration of the bursal fluid may be performed. The fluid can be sent for culture to identify the causative organism, which is crucial for guiding antibiotic therapy.
• Blood Tests: Complete blood count (CBC) may show elevated white blood cell counts, indicating infection. Other tests may include inflammatory markers such as C-reactive protein (CRP) and erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR).

5. Differential Diagnosis

• It is important to rule out other conditions that may mimic bursitis, such as septic arthritis, tendinitis, or soft tissue infections. A comprehensive evaluation helps ensure accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Conclusion

The diagnosis of M71.18, or other infective bursitis at other sites, relies on a combination of clinical assessment, imaging studies, and laboratory tests. Accurate diagnosis is essential for effective management, which may include antibiotics for infection and possibly surgical intervention if there is significant fluid accumulation or abscess formation. Understanding these criteria helps healthcare providers deliver targeted care and improve patient outcomes.

Clinical Description of ICD-10 Code M71.18: Other Infective Bursitis, Other Site

ICD-10 code M71.18 refers to "Other infective bursitis, other site," which is classified under the broader category of bursopathies. Bursitis is an inflammation of the bursa, a small fluid-filled sac that acts as a cushion between bones and soft tissues, such as muscles, tendons, and skin. This condition can result from various factors, including infection, trauma, or repetitive motion.

Key Characteristics of M71.18

1. Definition:
   - M71.18 specifically denotes bursitis that is caused by an infection but does not fall into the more commonly recognized sites of bursitis, such as the shoulder or knee. Instead, it encompasses infections occurring in less typical locations.

2. Etiology:
   - Infective bursitis can arise from direct infection (e.g., through a puncture wound) or from the spread of infection from nearby tissues. Common pathogens include bacteria, such as Staphylococcus aureus, which can lead to septic bursitis.

3. Symptoms:
   - Patients may present with localized swelling, pain, tenderness, and warmth over the affected area. There may also be systemic symptoms if the infection is severe, including fever and malaise.

4. Diagnosis:
   - Diagnosis typically involves a combination of clinical evaluation and imaging studies. Ultrasound or MRI may be used to assess the extent of the inflammation and to rule out other conditions. Aspiration of the bursa may also be performed to analyze the fluid for signs of infection.

5. Treatment:
   - Treatment often includes antibiotics if an infection is confirmed. In some cases, corticosteroid injections may be administered to reduce inflammation. Surgical intervention may be necessary for severe cases or if there is an abscess formation.

6. Prognosis:
   - The prognosis for patients with M71.18 largely depends on the timeliness of treatment and the underlying cause of the bursitis. Early intervention typically leads to better outcomes.

Related Codes and Considerations

• Differential Diagnosis: It is essential to differentiate M71.18 from other types of bursitis, such as non-infective bursitis (M71.0-M71.17), which may arise from mechanical stress or degenerative changes.
• Other Codes in the M71 Group: The M71 group includes various codes for other bursopathies, such as M71.1 for other infective bursitis and M71.3 for other bursal cysts, which may be relevant in clinical documentation and billing.

Conclusion

ICD-10 code M71.18 is crucial for accurately diagnosing and coding cases of infective bursitis occurring in atypical sites. Understanding the clinical presentation, diagnostic approach, and treatment options is essential for healthcare providers managing patients with this condition. Proper coding not only facilitates appropriate treatment but also ensures accurate billing and data collection for healthcare services.