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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesM02.12

M02.12

Billable

Postdysenteric arthropathy, elbow

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

Code Description

ICD-10 M02.12 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of postdysenteric arthropathy, elbow.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Postdysenteric arthropathy is a type of reactive arthritis that occurs following an episode of dysentery, typically caused by bacterial infections such as Shigella or Salmonella. This condition primarily affects the joints, with the elbow being one of the common sites of involvement. Anatomically, the elbow joint consists of the humerus, radius, and ulna, allowing for flexion, extension, and some rotation. The pathophysiology involves an immune-mediated response triggered by the infection, leading to inflammation of the synovial membrane and subsequent joint pain, swelling, and stiffness. Clinically, patients may present with acute onset of elbow pain, tenderness, and reduced range of motion, often following gastrointestinal symptoms. The condition may also be associated with systemic symptoms such as fever and malaise, and it can lead to chronic joint issues if not properly managed.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Requires understanding of post-infectious inflammatory processes
  • Involves specific anatomical knowledge of the elbow joint
  • Differentiation from other types of arthritis is necessary
  • Documentation of prior dysentery episode is critical

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of the dysentery episode
  • Failure to specify laterality of the elbow involvement
  • Misclassification as a primary arthritic condition without infectious history
  • Lack of detailed clinical findings related to joint function

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Orthopedics

Documentation Requirements

Orthopedic documentation should include imaging studies (X-rays, MRI) to assess joint integrity and functional assessments to evaluate range of motion and strength.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Common scenarios include acute elbow pain following gastrointestinal illness, requiring evaluation for potential surgical intervention if conservative management fails.

Billing Considerations

Joint-specific considerations include assessing for joint effusion, synovitis, and potential for chronic changes in the elbow joint.

Rheumatology

Documentation Requirements

Rheumatologic documentation should include laboratory tests for inflammatory markers (ESR, CRP) and disease activity assessments to monitor progression.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Scenarios may involve patients with a history of dysentery presenting with joint pain, requiring differentiation from other inflammatory arthritides.

Billing Considerations

Systemic involvement may necessitate evaluation for other manifestations of reactive arthritis, including enthesitis or dactylitis.

Physical Medicine

Documentation Requirements

Functional assessments should document mobility limitations, pain levels, and the need for assistive devices.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Rehabilitation scenarios may include post-acute care for joint stiffness and pain management strategies.

Billing Considerations

Considerations include the impact of joint involvement on daily activities and the need for tailored rehabilitation programs.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use M02.12 When
  • Official coding guidelines require documentation of laterality (right or left elbow), severity of the condition, and the type of encounter (initial, follow
  • up, etc
  • Accurate coding also necessitates linking the arthropathy to the prior dysentery episode

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use M02.12 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 postdysenteric arthropathy.

Documentation Requirements

Documentation must include indication for procedure, joint involved, and findings from physical examination.

Specialty Considerations

Orthopedic considerations include assessing joint stability and potential for surgical 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, including postdysenteric arthropathy, which aids in better tracking and management of these conditions.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for greater specificity in coding musculoskeletal conditions, including postdysenteric arthropathy, which aids in better tracking and management of these conditions.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for greater specificity in coding musculoskeletal conditions, including postdysenteric arthropathy, which aids in better tracking and management of these conditions.

Resources

Clinical References

  • •
    American College of Rheumatology Guidelines

Coding & Billing References

  • •
    American College of Rheumatology Guidelines

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the significance of documenting a history of dysentery in postdysenteric arthropathy?

Documenting a history of dysentery is crucial as it establishes the link between the infectious episode and the subsequent development of reactive arthritis, which is necessary for accurate coding and treatment planning.