M71.112 Other infective bursitis, left shoulder

Name of the Condition

• Other infective bursitis, left shoulder

Summary

Other infective bursitis, left shoulder refers to an infection of the bursa in the left shoulder region that is not classified under more specific infective bursitis codes. This condition involves microbial invasion of the bursa, leading to inflammation, pain, and potential functional impairment of the left shoulder joint.

Causes

Other infective bursitis, left shoulder typically results from bacterial infection, often introduced through direct trauma, skin breakdown, or spread from adjacent tissues. Common causative organisms include Staphylococcus aureus. Non-bacterial infections or secondary infection of a pre-existing bursitis may also occur, though the exact etiology varies by case.

Risk Factors

• Recent injury or surgery near the left shoulder bursa
• Skin infections or open wounds in the left shoulder area
• Immunocompromised states (e.g., diabetes, HIV)
• Chronic inflammatory conditions (e.g., rheumatoid arthritis)
• Repetitive motion or pressure on the left shoulder bursa

Symptoms

• Localized pain, swelling, and warmth over the left shoulder bursa
• Redness or erythema at the site
• Fever or systemic signs of infection
• Limited range of motion in the left shoulder joint
• Pus drainage if the infection progresses

Diagnosis

Diagnosis involves a physical examination to assess bursal characteristics, including tenderness, warmth, and swelling over the left shoulder. Imaging (e.g., ultrasound) may be used to evaluate the bursa, and fluid aspiration for culture can confirm infection and identify causative organisms. Clinical correlation with patient history and symptoms is essential.

Treatment Options

Treatment typically includes antibiotic therapy targeted at the identified or suspected pathogen, often initiated empirically while awaiting culture results. Rest, ice, and elevation of the left shoulder may reduce inflammation. Severe cases may require surgical drainage or debridement. Pain management and physical therapy are often adjunctive.

Prognosis and Follow-Up

Prognosis depends on the timeliness of treatment and the severity of infection. Early intervention usually leads to resolution with minimal functional impact. Follow-up may involve monitoring for symptom improvement, repeat imaging if needed, and adjusting antibiotics based on culture results. Chronic or untreated cases risk persistent pain or joint dysfunction.

Complications

Potential complications include abscess formation, spread of infection to surrounding tissues or joints, and chronic bursitis. In severe cases, sepsis or systemic infection may occur. Long-term sequelae can include reduced shoulder mobility or recurrent infections.

Lifestyle & Prevention

Preventive measures include avoiding trauma to the left shoulder, promptly treating skin infections or wounds, and managing underlying conditions like diabetes. Proper ergonomics and avoiding repetitive overhead motions may reduce bursal stress. Maintaining good hygiene and immune health supports prevention.

When to Seek Professional Help

Seek care if symptoms worsen (e.g., increasing pain, swelling, or fever), if pus drainage occurs, or if mobility significantly decreases. Immediate evaluation is necessary for signs of systemic infection (e.g., chills, confusion) or if home care measures fail to improve symptoms.

Tips for Medical Coders

Document the left shoulder site specificity and infective nature of the bursitis. Ensure clinical documentation supports the diagnosis, including site, infection confirmation, and any contributing factors. Code M71.112 is appropriate when the left shoulder is explicitly identified as the affected site and no more specific infective bursitis code applies.