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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesM05.022

M05.022

Billable

Felty's syndrome, left elbow

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

Code Description

ICD-10 M05.022 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of felty's syndrome, left elbow.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Felty's syndrome is a rare complication of rheumatoid arthritis characterized by the triad of rheumatoid arthritis, splenomegaly, and neutropenia. In the context of the left elbow, this condition may lead to significant joint inflammation, pain, and functional impairment. Anatomically, the elbow joint comprises the humerus, radius, and ulna, with ligaments and tendons providing stability and facilitating movement. Pathophysiologically, Felty's syndrome results from autoimmune processes that lead to joint destruction and systemic effects, including increased susceptibility to infections due to neutropenia. Clinically, patients may present with swelling, tenderness, and reduced range of motion in the left elbow, impacting daily activities and overall quality of life. Early diagnosis and management are crucial to prevent further joint damage and systemic complications.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Requires understanding of autoimmune processes and their impact on musculoskeletal health.
  • Involves specific anatomical knowledge of the elbow joint and surrounding structures.
  • Documentation must reflect both the systemic and localized effects of the syndrome.
  • Differentiation from other forms of arthritis and joint conditions is necessary.

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of systemic symptoms associated with Felty's syndrome.
  • Failure to document the specific laterality of the condition.
  • Misclassification of the condition as a primary or secondary diagnosis.
  • Lack of evidence for the presence of neutropenia in the medical record.

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 and strength.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Common scenarios include surgical interventions for joint repair or replacement, and management of acute exacerbations of joint pain.

Billing Considerations

Joint-specific considerations include the assessment of joint stability, alignment, and the presence of any deformities.

Rheumatology

Documentation Requirements

Rheumatologic documentation must include laboratory tests for inflammation markers (e.g., ESR, CRP) and assessments of disease activity (e.g., DAS28 score).

Common Clinical Scenarios

Autoimmune scenarios may involve managing flare-ups of rheumatoid arthritis and monitoring for systemic complications.

Billing Considerations

Systemic involvement may require documentation of splenomegaly and neutropenia, as well as their implications for treatment.

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

Rehabilitation scenarios may include physical therapy for joint mobility and strength training.

Billing Considerations

Mobility limitations may necessitate the use of assistive devices, which should be documented.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use M05.022 When
  • Official coding guidelines require accurate documentation of laterality (left elbow), severity of symptoms, and the type of encounter (initial, follow
  • up, etc

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use M05.022 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

20610CPT Code

Arthrocentesis, aspiration of the elbow joint

Clinical Scenario

Used when joint effusion is present in the left elbow due to Felty's syndrome.

Documentation Requirements

Documentation must include the indication for the procedure, findings, and any therapeutic interventions performed.

Specialty Considerations

Orthopedic considerations include the need for imaging guidance if indicated.

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, particularly those with systemic involvement, enhancing the accuracy of diagnoses and treatment plans.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for greater specificity in coding musculoskeletal conditions, particularly those with systemic involvement, enhancing the accuracy of diagnoses and treatment plans.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for greater specificity in coding musculoskeletal conditions, particularly those with systemic involvement, enhancing the accuracy of diagnoses and treatment plans.

Resources

Clinical References

  • •
    American College of Rheumatology Guidelines

Coding & Billing References

  • •
    American College of Rheumatology Guidelines

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the key features of Felty's syndrome that must be documented?

Key features include the presence of rheumatoid arthritis, evidence of splenomegaly, and laboratory confirmation of neutropenia. Documentation should also reflect the impact on joint function, particularly in the affected elbow.