Reactive arthropathy, unspecified
ICD-10 M02.9 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of reactive arthropathy, unspecified.
Reactive arthropathy is a type of inflammatory arthritis that occurs as a reaction to an infection in another part of the body, often following genitourinary or gastrointestinal infections. The pathophysiology involves an immune response where the body mistakenly attacks its own joint tissues, leading to inflammation. Clinically, patients may present with joint pain, swelling, and stiffness, typically affecting the lower extremities, particularly the knees, ankles, and feet. The condition can lead to movement limitations, particularly in weight-bearing activities, and may be associated with systemic symptoms such as fever and malaise. Anatomically, the joints involved are synovial joints, which are characterized by a joint capsule, synovial membrane, and articular cartilage. The inflammation can lead to synovitis, which may result in joint effusion and pain during movement.
Orthopedic documentation should include imaging studies (X-rays, MRIs) to assess joint integrity and functional assessments to evaluate range of motion and pain levels.
Patients presenting with knee pain following a recent gastrointestinal infection, requiring evaluation for potential surgical intervention if conservative management fails.
Joint-specific considerations include the need to document the severity of joint effusion and any structural changes observed on imaging.
Rheumatologic documentation should include laboratory tests for inflammatory markers (e.g., ESR, CRP) and assessments of disease activity using validated scales.
Patients with reactive arthropathy following a urinary tract infection, requiring monitoring for potential chronicity or progression to other rheumatologic conditions.
Consideration of systemic involvement, such as skin or ocular manifestations, which may indicate a broader autoimmune process.
Functional assessments should document mobility limitations, pain levels, and the need for assistive devices.
Patients undergoing rehabilitation post-infection, focusing on restoring joint function and mobility.
Assessment of the need for physical therapy interventions to improve joint function and reduce pain.
Used for patients with significant joint effusion due to reactive arthropathy.
Document the joint involved, the amount of fluid aspirated, and the patient's response to the procedure.
Orthopedic considerations include the need for imaging to guide the procedure.
Common symptoms include joint pain, swelling, stiffness, and reduced range of motion, often following an infection. Patients may also experience systemic symptoms like fever.
