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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesChapter 1: Certain infectious and parasitic diseasesA30.5

A30.5

Billable

Tuberculosis of bones and joints, multiple sites

Chapter 1:Certain infectious and parasitic diseases

BILLABLE STATUSYes
IMPLEMENTATION DATEOctober 1, 2015
LAST UPDATED09/05/2025

Code Description

ICD-10 A30.5 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of tuberculosis of bones and joints, multiple sites.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Tuberculosis of bones and joints, particularly affecting multiple sites, is a serious manifestation of extrapulmonary tuberculosis caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis. This condition typically arises from hematogenous spread of the bacteria from a primary pulmonary infection or from direct extension from adjacent infected tissues. The most commonly affected sites include the spine (Pott's disease), hips, knees, and other joints. Patients may present with localized pain, swelling, and reduced mobility in the affected areas. Diagnosis is confirmed through imaging studies such as X-rays or MRI, and microbiological tests including culture or PCR of synovial fluid or bone biopsy. Treatment involves a prolonged course of antitubercular therapy, typically including isoniazid, rifampicin, pyrazinamide, and ethambutol, administered for at least 6-12 months. Resistance patterns, particularly multidrug-resistant tuberculosis (MDR-TB), complicate treatment and require careful monitoring and potential use of second-line agents. Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment are crucial to prevent long-term complications such as joint deformities and chronic pain.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: High

High Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Requires understanding of extrapulmonary tuberculosis manifestations.
  • Differentiation from other bone and joint conditions.
  • Need for detailed documentation of multiple sites affected.
  • Potential for co-infection with other mycobacterial species.

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of multiple sites affected.
  • Failure to document resistance patterns.
  • Misclassification of the type of tuberculosis.
  • Lack of supporting imaging or lab results.

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Infectious Disease

Documentation Requirements

Detailed history of exposure, symptoms, and treatment response.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients presenting with joint pain and a history of tuberculosis.

Billing Considerations

Need for thorough documentation of treatment adherence and resistance testing.

Orthopedics

Documentation Requirements

Imaging results, surgical notes if applicable, and follow-up care.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Surgical intervention for abscess drainage or joint stabilization.

Billing Considerations

Documentation of the surgical procedure and its relation to tuberculosis.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use A30.5 When
  • Follow ICD
  • CM guidelines for coding infectious diseases, ensuring accurate documentation of the condition's severity and any complications
  • Include additional codes for any co
  • morbid conditions

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use A30.5 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 aspiration in suspected cases of tuberculosis.

Documentation Requirements

Document indication for aspiration and results.

Specialty Considerations

Orthopedic or Infectious Disease specialists may perform this procedure.

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of tuberculosis cases, improving the ability to track and manage treatment outcomes and resistance patterns.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of tuberculosis cases, improving the ability to track and manage treatment outcomes and resistance patterns.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of tuberculosis cases, improving the ability to track and manage treatment outcomes and resistance patterns.

Resources

Clinical References

  • •
    CDC Tuberculosis Guidelines

Coding & Billing References

  • •
    CDC Tuberculosis Guidelines

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the common symptoms of tuberculosis of bones and joints?

Common symptoms include localized pain, swelling, fever, and reduced mobility in the affected joints or bones.

How is tuberculosis of bones and joints diagnosed?

Diagnosis typically involves imaging studies such as X-rays or MRI, along with microbiological tests like culture or PCR from affected tissues.

What is the treatment protocol for tuberculosis of bones and joints?

Treatment usually involves a combination of antitubercular medications for at least 6-12 months, depending on the severity and presence of drug resistance.

What are the potential complications of untreated tuberculosis of bones and joints?

Complications can include chronic pain, joint deformities, and systemic spread of the infection.