ICD-10 Logo
ICDxICD-10 Medical Coding
ICD-10 Logo
ICDxICD-10 Medical Coding
ICD 10 CodesDiagnoses
ICD 10 CodesDiagnoses
ICD-10 Logo
ICDxICD-10 Medical Coding

Comprehensive ICD-10-CM code reference with AI-powered search capabilities.

© 2025 ICD Code Compass. All rights reserved.

Browse

  • All Chapters
  • All Categories
  • Diagnoses

Tools

  • AI Code Search
ICD-10-CM codes are maintained by the CDC and CMS. This tool is for reference purposes only.
v1.0.0
ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesM05.042

M05.042

Billable

Felty's syndrome, left hand

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

Code Description

ICD-10 M05.042 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of felty's syndrome, left hand.

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 hand, this condition can lead to significant joint involvement, particularly in the metacarpophalangeal and proximal interphalangeal joints. Anatomically, the left hand consists of 27 bones, including the carpals, metacarpals, and phalanges, which can be affected by inflammatory processes leading to pain, swelling, and deformities. Clinically, patients may present with decreased grip strength, limited range of motion, and increased susceptibility to infections due to neutropenia. The pathophysiology involves immune-mediated inflammation that can result in joint erosion and deformity, impacting the patient's functional capacity and quality of life.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: High

High Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Involvement of multiple anatomical structures in the hand
  • Need for detailed documentation of joint involvement and severity
  • Potential for systemic complications affecting coding
  • Variability in clinical presentation and treatment approaches

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of joint involvement and severity
  • Failure to capture systemic manifestations of the syndrome
  • Misclassification of laterality or specific joint involvement
  • Lack of supporting clinical evidence for the diagnosis

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Orthopedics

Documentation Requirements

Orthopedic documentation should include imaging studies (X-rays, MRIs) to assess joint damage, functional assessments to evaluate range of motion, and any surgical interventions performed.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Common scenarios include surgical interventions for joint deformities or arthroplasties in advanced cases.

Billing Considerations

Documentation must specify which joints are involved and the degree of functional impairment.

Rheumatology

Documentation Requirements

Rheumatologic documentation should include laboratory tests for inflammatory markers (e.g., ESR, CRP), complete blood counts to monitor neutrophil levels, and assessments of disease activity.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients may present with exacerbations of rheumatoid arthritis requiring adjustments in therapy.

Billing Considerations

Systemic involvement must be documented, including any complications arising from neutropenia.

Physical Medicine

Documentation Requirements

Functional assessments should evaluate mobility, strength, and the need for assistive devices.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Rehabilitation scenarios may include therapy for improving hand function and strength post-surgery.

Billing Considerations

Documentation should address mobility limitations and any adaptations required for daily activities.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use M05.042 When
  • Follow official coding guidelines for laterality (specifying left hand), severity (documenting the extent of joint involvement), and encounter type (initial visit, follow
  • up, etc
  • Ensure that all relevant clinical information is captured to support the diagnosis

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use M05.042 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 managing joint effusions in the left hand due to Felty's syndrome.

Documentation Requirements

Document the specific joint involved and the reason for the procedure.

Specialty Considerations

Orthopedic considerations for joint management and rheumatologic implications for inflammation.

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 complications and comorbidities associated with Felty's syndrome.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for greater specificity in coding musculoskeletal conditions, enabling better tracking of complications and comorbidities associated with Felty's syndrome.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

reimbursement.

Resources

Clinical References

  • •
    American College of Rheumatology Guidelines

Coding & Billing References

  • •
    American College of Rheumatology Guidelines

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the common symptoms of Felty's syndrome?

Common symptoms include joint pain and swelling, particularly in the hands, recurrent infections due to neutropenia, and splenomegaly. Patients may also experience fatigue and decreased functional capacity.