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v1.0.0
ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesM02.832

M02.832

Billable

Other reactive arthropathies, left wrist

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

Code Description

ICD-10 M02.832 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of other reactive arthropathies, left wrist.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Reactive arthropathies are inflammatory joint conditions that arise secondary to infections or other systemic diseases, often presenting with joint pain, swelling, and stiffness. The left wrist, comprising the distal radius, ulna, and carpal bones, is a complex structure that allows for a wide range of motion. In cases of reactive arthropathy, the inflammation can lead to synovitis, affecting the wrist's mobility and function. Clinically, patients may present with pain exacerbated by movement, tenderness upon palpation, and potential swelling around the wrist joint. The pathophysiology often involves an immune response triggered by an infection elsewhere in the body, leading to joint inflammation. Diagnosis typically requires a thorough clinical evaluation, including history, physical examination, and possibly imaging studies to assess joint integrity and rule out other conditions.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Need for precise anatomical localization (left wrist)
  • Differentiation from other arthropathies
  • Potential overlap with systemic conditions
  • Documentation of inflammatory markers

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of joint involvement
  • Failure to specify laterality
  • Lack of supporting evidence for reactive nature
  • Misclassification with other arthropathies

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Orthopedics

Documentation Requirements

Orthopedic documentation should include imaging results (X-rays, MRIs) and functional assessments to evaluate joint stability and range of motion.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients may present with wrist pain following a recent infection or systemic illness, requiring surgical intervention if conservative management fails.

Billing Considerations

Documenting the severity of joint involvement and any surgical interventions is crucial for accurate coding.

Rheumatology

Documentation Requirements

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

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients may exhibit symptoms of reactive arthritis following a genitourinary or gastrointestinal infection.

Billing Considerations

Consideration of systemic involvement and potential progression to chronic arthritis is essential.

Physical Medicine

Documentation Requirements

Functional assessments should evaluate the patient's ability to perform daily activities and any need for assistive devices.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Rehabilitation may focus on restoring wrist function post-inflammation.

Billing Considerations

Documenting mobility limitations and the impact on quality of life is important.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use M02.832 When
  • Follow official coding guidelines for laterality (specifying left wrist), severity of the condition, and encounter type (initial vs
  • follow
  • Ensure documentation supports the reactive nature of the arthropathy

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use M02.832 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

20610CPT Code

Arthrocentesis, aspiration and/or injection into a major joint or bursa

Clinical Scenario

Used for therapeutic aspiration of the left wrist joint to relieve swelling.

Documentation Requirements

Document the indication for the procedure, including joint involvement and any prior treatments.

Specialty Considerations

Orthopedic and rheumatologic considerations for joint health and inflammation 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 reactive 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 reactive 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 reactive arthropathies and their management.

Resources

Clinical References

  • •
    American College of Rheumatology Guidelines

Coding & Billing References

  • •
    American College of Rheumatology Guidelines

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the common causes of reactive arthropathies?

Common causes include infections such as chlamydia, gastrointestinal infections, and viral illnesses. The immune response to these infections can trigger inflammation in the joints, particularly in predisposed individuals.