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v1.0.0
ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesM02.841

M02.841

Billable

Other reactive arthropathies, right hand

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

Code Description

ICD-10 M02.841 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of other reactive arthropathies, right hand.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Reactive arthropathies are inflammatory joint conditions that occur secondary to infections or other systemic diseases. In the case of M02.841, the condition specifically affects the right hand. Anatomically, the hand consists of multiple joints including the metacarpophalangeal joints, proximal interphalangeal joints, and distal interphalangeal joints, all of which can be involved in reactive arthropathies. Clinically, patients may present with symptoms such as joint pain, swelling, and stiffness, particularly after an infection elsewhere in the body. The pathophysiology involves an immune response triggered by an infection, leading to inflammation in the joints. This condition can significantly impact hand function, limiting movement and dexterity, which is crucial for daily activities. Treatment often includes anti-inflammatory medications, physical therapy, and in some cases, corticosteroid injections to manage symptoms and improve joint function.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Variety of potential underlying causes (e.g., infections, autoimmune disorders)
  • Need for precise documentation of joint involvement and laterality
  • Differentiation from other arthropathies and musculoskeletal conditions
  • Potential for systemic involvement requiring comprehensive evaluation

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of joint involvement and laterality
  • Failure to specify the underlying cause of the reactive arthropathy
  • Misclassification of the condition as a primary arthropathy instead of reactive
  • Lack of supporting evidence for treatment decisions

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Orthopedics

Documentation Requirements

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

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients may present with acute joint pain following a recent infection, requiring surgical intervention if joint damage is severe.

Billing Considerations

Documentation should detail the specific joints affected and the severity of the condition to guide treatment options.

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 diseases that complicate the diagnosis and management of reactive arthropathies.

Billing Considerations

Systemic involvement should be documented, including any extra-articular manifestations.

Physical Medicine

Documentation Requirements

Functional assessments should evaluate the patient's ability to perform daily activities and any rehabilitation needs.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients may require physical therapy to regain strength and mobility after an acute flare-up.

Billing Considerations

Documentation should address mobility limitations and the need for assistive devices.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use M02.841 When
  • 10 coding guidelines require accurate documentation of laterality (right hand), severity of the condition, and the type of encounter (initial, follow
  • up, etc
  • Coders must ensure that the underlying cause of the reactive arthropathy is documented to support the diagnosis

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use M02.841 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 reactive arthritis cases.

Documentation Requirements

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

Specialty Considerations

Orthopedic and rheumatologic considerations for joint health and 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 reactive 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 reactive 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 reactive arthropathies and their management.

Resources

Clinical References

  • •
    American College of Rheumatology Guidelines

Coding & Billing References

  • •
    American College of Rheumatology Guidelines

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the common causes of reactive arthropathies?

Common causes include infections such as urinary tract infections, gastrointestinal infections, and viral illnesses. The immune response to these infections can trigger inflammation in the joints.