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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesM02.242

M02.242

Billable

Postimmunization arthropathy, left hand

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

Code Description

ICD-10 M02.242 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of postimmunization arthropathy, left hand.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Postimmunization arthropathy refers to joint pain and inflammation that occurs following vaccination. This condition can affect the left hand, leading to symptoms such as swelling, stiffness, and reduced range of motion in the joints of the hand, including the metacarpophalangeal and interphalangeal joints. The pathophysiology involves an immune-mediated response triggered by the vaccine, which may lead to synovitis and subsequent arthritic symptoms. Clinically, patients may present with localized pain, tenderness, and functional limitations in hand movements, impacting daily activities. The anatomical considerations include the intricate structure of the hand, which consists of bones, ligaments, tendons, and muscles that work together to facilitate fine motor skills. Understanding the specific joints involved is crucial for accurate diagnosis and treatment planning.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Requires understanding of postimmunization reactions and their musculoskeletal implications.
  • Involves knowledge of hand anatomy and joint-specific coding.
  • Differentiation from other arthropathies is necessary for accurate coding.
  • Documentation must specify laterality and joint involvement.

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of vaccination history.
  • Failure to specify laterality or joint involvement.
  • Misclassification as a primary arthritic condition without evidence of immunization history.
  • Lack of supporting clinical findings for the diagnosis.

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Orthopedics

Documentation Requirements

Orthopedic documentation should include imaging studies (e.g., X-rays, MRIs) to assess joint integrity and functional assessments to evaluate range of motion.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients may present with acute onset of pain in the left hand following vaccination, requiring evaluation for potential surgical intervention if conservative measures fail.

Billing Considerations

Documentation should detail specific joints affected and any functional limitations observed during the examination.

Rheumatology

Documentation Requirements

Rheumatologic documentation must include laboratory tests for inflammation markers (e.g., ESR, CRP) and assessments of disease activity.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients may exhibit systemic symptoms alongside localized hand pain, necessitating a comprehensive evaluation for autoimmune disorders.

Billing Considerations

Consideration of any underlying rheumatologic conditions that may exacerbate postimmunization symptoms is essential.

Physical Medicine

Documentation Requirements

Functional assessments should evaluate the patient's ability to perform activities of daily living and any rehabilitation needs.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients may require physical therapy to regain strength and mobility in the left hand post-vaccination.

Billing Considerations

Documentation should address any assistive devices needed to aid in mobility and function.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use M02.242 When
  • 10 coding guidelines require specificity in laterality (left hand) and the nature of the condition (postimmunization)
  • Documentation must reflect the encounter type (initial visit, follow
  • up) and any relevant clinical findings

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use M02.242 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 postimmunization arthropathy.

Documentation Requirements

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

Specialty Considerations

Orthopedic or rheumatologic evaluations may require additional documentation of joint assessments.

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, including postimmunization arthropathy, which aids in better tracking and management of these conditions.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for greater specificity in coding musculoskeletal conditions, including postimmunization arthropathy, which aids in better tracking and management of these conditions.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

reimbursement and compliance.

Resources

Clinical References

  • •
    CDC Immunization Guidelines
  • •
    American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS) Guidelines

Coding & Billing References

  • •
    CDC Immunization Guidelines
  • •
    American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS) Guidelines

Frequently Asked Questions

What documentation is required to support the diagnosis of postimmunization arthropathy?

Documentation should include the patient's vaccination history, onset of symptoms, clinical findings, and any imaging or laboratory results that support the diagnosis.