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v1.0.0
ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesM02.232

M02.232

Billable

Postimmunization arthropathy, left wrist

BILLABLE STATUSYes
IMPLEMENTATION DATEOctober 1, 2015
LAST UPDATED09/12/2025

Code Description

ICD-10 M02.232 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of postimmunization arthropathy, left wrist.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Postimmunization arthropathy refers to joint pain and inflammation that occurs following vaccination. In the case of the left wrist, this condition may manifest as swelling, stiffness, and pain localized to the wrist joint, which comprises the distal radius and ulna, carpal bones, and the proximal ends of the metacarpals. The pathophysiology involves an immune-mediated response triggered by the vaccine, leading to synovitis and potential joint effusion. Clinically, patients may present with limited range of motion, tenderness upon palpation, and difficulty performing activities of daily living that require wrist mobility. The onset of symptoms typically occurs within days to weeks post-vaccination, and while self-limiting in many cases, some patients may require further evaluation and treatment to manage persistent symptoms.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Requires understanding of immunological responses to vaccines
  • Involves specific anatomical knowledge of the wrist joint
  • Differentiation from other arthropathies is necessary
  • Documentation of laterality and specific joint involvement is critical

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of vaccination history
  • Failure to specify laterality of the affected joint
  • Misclassification of postimmunization arthropathy as a primary inflammatory condition
  • Lack of detailed clinical notes regarding joint examination findings

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Orthopedics

Documentation Requirements

Orthopedic documentation should include imaging studies (e.g., X-rays, MRI) to assess joint integrity and any structural changes, as well as functional assessments to evaluate range of motion and strength.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients may present with acute wrist pain following vaccination, requiring evaluation for possible joint effusion or synovitis. Surgical intervention may be considered if conservative management fails.

Billing Considerations

Orthopedic specialists should document the severity of joint involvement and any functional limitations impacting the patient's daily activities.

Rheumatology

Documentation Requirements

Rheumatologic documentation should include laboratory tests for inflammatory markers (e.g., ESR, CRP) and assessments of disease activity to rule out underlying autoimmune conditions.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients may exhibit symptoms consistent with inflammatory arthritis post-vaccination, necessitating a thorough evaluation to differentiate from primary rheumatologic disorders.

Billing Considerations

Consideration of systemic involvement and potential progression of symptoms is crucial in the rheumatologic assessment.

Physical Medicine

Documentation Requirements

Functional assessments should be documented to evaluate the impact of wrist pain on mobility and daily activities, including any need for assistive devices.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Rehabilitation scenarios may involve physical therapy to restore function and alleviate pain, focusing on strengthening and range of motion exercises.

Billing Considerations

Documentation should address any mobility limitations and the patient's response to rehabilitation interventions.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use M02.232 When
  • 10 coding guidelines require accurate documentation of laterality (left wrist), severity of symptoms, and the context of the encounter (initial visit, follow
  • up, etc
  • It is essential to link the diagnosis to the immunization history

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use M02.232 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

99213CPT Code

Established patient office visit, Level 3

Clinical Scenario

Used for follow-up visits to assess ongoing symptoms and treatment response.

Documentation Requirements

Documentation must include history, examination findings, and treatment plan.

Specialty Considerations

Orthopedic and rheumatologic considerations for ongoing management.

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for greater specificity in coding musculoskeletal conditions, enabling better tracking of postimmunization arthropathies and their management.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for greater specificity in coding musculoskeletal conditions, enabling better tracking of postimmunization arthropathies and their management.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for greater specificity in coding musculoskeletal conditions, enabling better tracking of postimmunization arthropathies and their management.

Resources

Clinical References

  • •
    CDC Immunization Guidelines

Coding & Billing References

  • •
    CDC Immunization Guidelines

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the common symptoms of postimmunization arthropathy?

Common symptoms include joint pain, swelling, stiffness, and limited range of motion in the affected joint, typically occurring within days to weeks after vaccination.