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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesM02.22

M02.22

Billable

Postimmunization arthropathy, elbow

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

Code Description

ICD-10 M02.22 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of postimmunization arthropathy, elbow.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Postimmunization arthropathy of the elbow refers to joint pain and inflammation that occurs following vaccination. The elbow joint, a hinge joint formed by the humerus, radius, and ulna, allows for flexion and extension, as well as limited pronation and supination. Pathophysiologically, postimmunization arthropathy may arise due to an autoimmune response triggered by the vaccine, leading to synovitis and joint effusion. Clinically, patients may present with localized pain, swelling, and reduced range of motion in the elbow, often accompanied by systemic symptoms such as fever or malaise. The onset of symptoms typically occurs within days to weeks post-vaccination, and while the condition is usually self-limiting, it can significantly impact daily activities and functional mobility.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Requires understanding of immunological responses to vaccines
  • Differentiation from other forms of arthropathy
  • Documentation of specific joint involvement and symptoms
  • Potential for overlapping diagnoses in patients with autoimmune conditions

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of vaccination history
  • Failure to specify laterality of elbow involvement
  • Misclassification of postimmunization arthropathy as a primary condition without supporting evidence
  • Lack of clarity in distinguishing from other arthropathies

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Orthopedics

Documentation Requirements

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

Common Clinical Scenarios

Common scenarios include patients presenting with elbow pain post-vaccination, requiring evaluation for potential surgical intervention if conservative measures fail.

Billing Considerations

Joint-specific considerations include assessing for joint effusion and the impact of inflammation on surrounding structures.

Rheumatology

Documentation Requirements

Rheumatologic documentation must include laboratory tests for inflammation markers (e.g., ESR, CRP) and assessments of disease activity to rule out underlying rheumatologic conditions.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients may present with systemic symptoms alongside localized elbow pain, necessitating a comprehensive evaluation for autoimmune disorders.

Billing Considerations

Consideration of systemic involvement and monitoring for potential progression to chronic arthropathy is crucial.

Physical Medicine

Documentation Requirements

Functional assessments should document the patient's mobility limitations, pain levels, and rehabilitation needs, including any assistive devices used.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Rehabilitation scenarios may involve physical therapy to restore range of motion and strength post-arthropathy.

Billing Considerations

Focus on mobility limitations and the need for adaptive strategies in daily activities.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use M02.22 When
  • Official coding guidelines require specificity in documenting laterality (right, left, bilateral) and the severity of symptoms
  • Encounter type (initial, subsequent, or sequela) must also be accurately captured

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use M02.22 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

99213CPT Code

Established patient office visit, Level 3

Clinical Scenario

Used for follow-up visits to assess the patient's progress and response to treatment.

Documentation Requirements

Documentation must include history, examination findings, and treatment plan.

Specialty Considerations

Orthopedic and rheumatologic considerations for ongoing management.

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 postimmunization arthropathies and their management.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for greater specificity in coding musculoskeletal conditions, enabling better tracking of postimmunization arthropathies and their management.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for greater specificity in coding musculoskeletal conditions, enabling better tracking of postimmunization arthropathies and their management.

Resources

Clinical References

  • •
    American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons Guidelines
  • •
    American College of Rheumatology Recommendations

Coding & Billing References

  • •
    American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons Guidelines
  • •
    American College of Rheumatology Recommendations

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the common symptoms of postimmunization arthropathy?

Common symptoms include localized joint pain, swelling, reduced range of motion, and sometimes systemic symptoms like fever or malaise, typically occurring within days to weeks after vaccination.