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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesM02.839

M02.839

Billable

Other reactive arthropathies, unspecified wrist

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

Code Description

ICD-10 M02.839 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of other reactive arthropathies, unspecified wrist.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Reactive arthropathies are a group of inflammatory joint conditions that arise secondary to infections or other inflammatory processes elsewhere in the body. The wrist, comprising the carpal bones, distal radius, and ulna, is a complex joint that allows for a wide range of motion. In cases of reactive arthropathy, patients may present with joint pain, swelling, and stiffness, often following a systemic infection or inflammatory trigger. The pathophysiology involves an immune-mediated response where the body reacts to an antigen, leading to synovial inflammation and joint effusion. Clinically, patients may experience limited range of motion, tenderness upon palpation, and signs of inflammation such as warmth and redness. Diagnosis typically involves a combination of clinical evaluation, imaging studies, and laboratory tests to rule out other conditions. Treatment may include non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), corticosteroids, and physical therapy to restore function and alleviate symptoms.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Variety of potential underlying causes (e.g., infections, autoimmune disorders)
  • Need for differential diagnosis to rule out other arthropathies
  • Variability in clinical presentation and severity
  • Potential for co-existing conditions affecting treatment and coding

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of the underlying cause of the reactive arthropathy
  • Failure to specify laterality or joint involvement
  • Insufficient detail on functional limitations and treatment response
  • Misclassification of the condition as a primary diagnosis when it is secondary

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

Patients may present with wrist pain following a recent infection or injury, requiring surgical intervention if conservative management fails.

Billing Considerations

Documentation should reflect joint-specific considerations, including the severity of inflammation and any structural damage observed on imaging.

Rheumatology

Documentation Requirements

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

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients may have a history of autoimmune conditions that exacerbate joint inflammation, requiring a multidisciplinary approach.

Billing Considerations

Consideration of systemic involvement and monitoring for potential progression to chronic arthritis is essential.

Physical Medicine

Documentation Requirements

Functional assessments should document the patient's ability to perform daily activities and any assistive devices used.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Rehabilitation scenarios may involve post-infection recovery where patients need therapy to regain full wrist function.

Billing Considerations

Focus on mobility limitations and the need for tailored rehabilitation programs to address specific deficits.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use M02.839 When
  • Follow official coding guidelines for laterality (right, left, bilateral), severity (acute vs
  • chronic), and encounter type (initial vs
  • follow
  • Ensure that the documentation supports the diagnosis and reflects the patient's clinical status

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use M02.839 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 when joint effusion is present and requires drainage or injection for treatment.

Documentation Requirements

Document the joint involved, indication for the procedure, and any imaging guidance used.

Specialty Considerations

Orthopedic and rheumatologic considerations for joint 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 disease prevalence and treatment outcomes. This specificity aids in clinical decision-making and resource allocation.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for greater specificity in coding musculoskeletal conditions, enabling better tracking of disease prevalence and treatment outcomes. This specificity aids in clinical decision-making and resource allocation.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for greater specificity in coding musculoskeletal conditions, enabling better tracking of disease prevalence and treatment outcomes. This specificity aids in clinical decision-making and resource allocation.

Resources

Clinical References

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

Coding & Billing References

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

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the common causes of reactive arthropathies?

Common causes include infections (bacterial, viral), autoimmune diseases, and post-infectious inflammatory responses. Identifying the underlying cause is crucial for effective treatment.