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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesM02.879

M02.879

Billable

Other reactive arthropathies, unspecified ankle and foot

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

Code Description

ICD-10 M02.879 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of other reactive arthropathies, unspecified ankle and foot.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Reactive arthropathies are inflammatory joint conditions that occur secondary to infections or other systemic diseases. The ankle and foot are complex structures composed of numerous bones, ligaments, tendons, and synovial joints, which can be affected by these arthropathies. Clinically, patients may present with joint pain, swelling, and stiffness, particularly in the ankle and foot regions. The pathophysiology often involves an immune response triggered by an infection elsewhere in the body, leading to inflammation in the joints. Common causes include post-infectious reactions to bacterial infections, such as those caused by Chlamydia or gastrointestinal pathogens. Patients may experience movement limitations, particularly in dorsiflexion and plantarflexion, impacting their ability to walk or bear weight. Diagnosis typically involves clinical evaluation, imaging studies, and laboratory tests to rule out other conditions. Treatment may include NSAIDs, corticosteroids, and physical therapy to manage symptoms and improve function.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Variety of potential underlying causes (infectious, autoimmune)
  • Need for differential diagnosis with other arthropathies
  • Variability in clinical presentation and severity
  • Potential for co-existing conditions affecting treatment

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of clinical findings
  • Failure to specify laterality of joint involvement
  • Lack of supporting evidence for reactive nature of the arthropathy
  • 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 acute onset of ankle pain following a recent infection, requiring surgical intervention for severe cases.

Billing Considerations

Joint-specific considerations include assessing for ligamentous injuries or structural abnormalities that may complicate the reactive arthropathy.

Rheumatology

Documentation Requirements

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

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients with a history of autoimmune diseases may develop reactive arthropathies, necessitating a comprehensive evaluation of systemic involvement.

Billing Considerations

Consideration of systemic symptoms and potential for chronicity in reactive arthropathies is crucial for treatment planning.

Physical Medicine

Documentation Requirements

Functional assessments should document the patient's mobility limitations and rehabilitation needs, including range of motion and strength testing.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients may require rehabilitation following acute episodes to restore function and mobility.

Billing Considerations

Assessment of assistive device needs and home modifications may be necessary for patients with significant mobility impairments.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use M02.879 When
  • Official coding guidelines require documentation of laterality (right, left, bilateral) and severity of the condition
  • Encounter type (initial, subsequent, sequela) must also be accurately reflected in coding to ensure proper reimbursement

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use M02.879 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 joint effusion management in reactive arthropathy cases.

Documentation Requirements

Document the joint involved, the reason for the procedure, and any findings during aspiration.

Specialty Considerations

Orthopedic and rheumatologic considerations include assessing joint stability and potential for further intervention.

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 pathogens, and post-viral syndromes. These infections trigger an immune response that leads to joint inflammation.