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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesM02.321

M02.321

Billable

Reiter's disease, right elbow

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

Code Description

ICD-10 M02.321 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of reiter's disease, right elbow.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Reiter's disease, also known as reactive arthritis, is a type of inflammatory arthritis that develops in response to an infection in another part of the body. It is characterized by the classic triad of arthritis, urethritis, and conjunctivitis. In the case of M02.321, the focus is on the right elbow joint, which may exhibit swelling, pain, and limited range of motion due to inflammation. Anatomically, the elbow joint comprises the humerus, radius, and ulna, with synovial fluid providing lubrication. Pathophysiologically, the condition is believed to involve an autoimmune response triggered by infections, commonly in the urogenital or gastrointestinal tract. Clinically, patients may present with unilateral joint involvement, particularly in the lower extremities, but can also affect the elbow, leading to significant discomfort and functional impairment. The inflammatory process can result in joint erosion and long-term disability if not managed appropriately.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Requires understanding of autoimmune mechanisms and joint anatomy
  • Differentiation from other forms of arthritis
  • Documentation of laterality and specific joint involvement
  • Potential for systemic manifestations affecting coding

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of joint involvement and laterality
  • Failure to document the underlying infection or trigger
  • Misclassification of reactive arthritis as primary arthritis
  • Lack of evidence for systemic involvement or comorbidities

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Orthopedics

Documentation Requirements

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

Common Clinical Scenarios

Common scenarios include surgical interventions for severe joint damage or arthroscopic procedures to assess joint health.

Billing Considerations

Joint-specific considerations include documenting the severity of inflammation and any structural changes observed in imaging.

Rheumatology

Documentation Requirements

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

Common Clinical Scenarios

Autoimmune and inflammatory scenarios often involve monitoring disease progression and response to treatment.

Billing Considerations

Systemic involvement may necessitate additional documentation of extra-articular manifestations.

Physical Medicine

Documentation Requirements

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

Common Clinical Scenarios

Rehabilitation scenarios may focus on restoring function and managing pain through physical therapy.

Billing Considerations

Mobility limitations should be documented to justify therapy interventions and assistive device prescriptions.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use M02.321 When
  • Official coding guidelines for M02
  • 321 require accurate documentation of laterality (right elbow), severity of the condition, and the type of encounter (initial, follow
  • up, etc
  • Coders must ensure that the diagnosis aligns with the treatment provided

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use M02.321 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 Reiter's disease.

Documentation Requirements

Document the joint involved, indication for the procedure, and any findings during aspiration.

Specialty Considerations

Orthopedic considerations include assessing joint stability and potential for further 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 Reiter's disease. Coders must be diligent in capturing the precise nature of the condition and its manifestations.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for greater specificity in coding musculoskeletal conditions, including Reiter's disease. Coders must be diligent in capturing the precise nature of the condition and its manifestations.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for greater specificity in coding musculoskeletal conditions, including Reiter's disease. Coders must be diligent in capturing the precise nature of the condition and its manifestations.

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 Reiter's disease?

Common symptoms include joint pain and swelling, particularly in the knees and elbows, along with possible conjunctivitis and urinary symptoms. Patients may also experience fatigue and systemic symptoms due to inflammation.