Other reactive arthropathies, vertebrae
ICD-10 M02.88 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of other reactive arthropathies, vertebrae.
Reactive arthropathies are inflammatory joint conditions that arise secondary to infections or other inflammatory processes elsewhere in the body. M02.88 specifically refers to those affecting the vertebrae, which are the individual bones that stack to form the spinal column. The vertebrae consist of cervical, thoracic, lumbar, sacral, and coccygeal regions, each with distinct anatomical features. Reactive arthropathies can lead to inflammation of the vertebral joints, resulting in pain, stiffness, and potential mobility limitations. Clinically, patients may present with back pain, reduced range of motion, and symptoms that may mimic other spinal disorders. The pathophysiology often involves an immune response triggered by infections, such as those from the genitourinary or gastrointestinal tracts, leading to inflammation in the spinal joints. Diagnosis typically involves clinical evaluation, imaging studies, and laboratory tests to identify underlying infections or inflammatory markers.
Orthopedic documentation should include detailed imaging reports (X-rays, MRIs) showing vertebral involvement, functional assessments, and treatment plans.
Patients may present with acute back pain following a recent infection, requiring surgical intervention for severe cases.
Documentation must specify the affected vertebral levels and any associated neurological deficits.
Rheumatologic documentation should include inflammatory markers (e.g., ESR, CRP), disease activity scores, and patient history of infections.
Patients with a history of reactive arthritis may present with exacerbations linked to gastrointestinal infections.
Systemic involvement must be documented, especially if there are signs of spondyloarthritis.
Functional assessments should detail mobility limitations, pain levels, and rehabilitation goals.
Patients may require physical therapy for rehabilitation post-infection or after surgical intervention.
Documentation should address the need for assistive devices and the patient's ability to perform activities of daily living.
Used to assess vertebral involvement in patients with suspected reactive arthropathy.
Imaging reports must clearly indicate findings related to inflammation or structural changes.
Orthopedic and rheumatologic specialists may interpret these results differently based on their focus.
Common causes include infections from the genitourinary or gastrointestinal tracts, as well as post-viral syndromes. These infections can trigger an immune response that leads to inflammation in the spinal joints.
