ICD-10 Logo
ICDxICD-10 Medical Coding
ICD-10 Logo
ICDxICD-10 Medical Coding
ICD 10 CodesDiagnoses
ICD 10 CodesDiagnoses
ICD-10 Logo
ICDxICD-10 Medical Coding

Comprehensive ICD-10-CM code reference with AI-powered search capabilities.

© 2025 ICD Code Compass. All rights reserved.

Browse

  • All Chapters
  • All Categories
  • Diagnoses

Tools

  • AI Code Search
ICD-10-CM codes are maintained by the CDC and CMS. This tool is for reference purposes only.
v1.0.0
ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesM05.021

M05.021

Billable

Felty's syndrome, right elbow

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

Code Description

ICD-10 M05.021 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of felty's syndrome, right elbow.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Felty's syndrome is a rare complication of rheumatoid arthritis characterized by the triad of rheumatoid arthritis, splenomegaly, and neutropenia. In the context of the right elbow, this condition can lead to significant joint involvement, resulting in pain, swelling, and limited range of motion. Anatomically, the elbow joint comprises the humerus, radius, and ulna, with ligaments and tendons providing stability and facilitating movement. The inflammation associated with Felty's syndrome can cause synovitis, leading to joint destruction and deformity over time. Clinically, patients may present with symptoms such as joint stiffness, tenderness, and decreased functionality, impacting daily activities. The right elbow's involvement may necessitate targeted treatment strategies to manage both the systemic and local manifestations of the disease.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: High

High Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Requires understanding of both systemic and localized manifestations of Felty's syndrome.
  • Involves knowledge of rheumatoid arthritis and its complications.
  • Documentation must reflect both the autoimmune nature and joint-specific issues.
  • Need for precise laterality coding (right elbow).

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of systemic symptoms.
  • Failure to specify laterality.
  • Misclassification of joint involvement severity.
  • Lack of evidence for neutropenia or splenomegaly.

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

Patients may require surgical intervention for joint repair or replacement due to severe damage from Felty's syndrome.

Billing Considerations

Orthopedic assessments must detail the extent of joint involvement and any deformities present.

Rheumatology

Documentation Requirements

Rheumatologic documentation should include laboratory tests for inflammatory markers (e.g., ESR, CRP) and assessments of disease activity (e.g., DAS28 score).

Common Clinical Scenarios

Management of Felty's syndrome may involve immunosuppressive therapies and monitoring for complications.

Billing Considerations

Documentation must reflect the systemic nature of the disease and any associated complications.

Physical Medicine

Documentation Requirements

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

Common Clinical Scenarios

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

Billing Considerations

Consideration of mobility limitations and the impact on daily living activities is crucial.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use M05.021 When
  • 10 coding guidelines require specificity in laterality (right elbow) and severity of the condition
  • Documentation must support the diagnosis and any associated complications

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use M05.021 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 managing joint effusion in the right elbow due to Felty's syndrome.

Documentation Requirements

Documentation must include indication for the procedure, joint involved, and any prior treatments.

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, particularly in cases like Felty's syndrome where systemic involvement is critical for accurate diagnosis and treatment planning.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for greater specificity in coding musculoskeletal conditions, particularly in cases like Felty's syndrome where systemic involvement is critical for accurate diagnosis and treatment planning.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for greater specificity in coding musculoskeletal conditions, particularly in cases like Felty's syndrome where systemic involvement is critical for accurate diagnosis and treatment planning.

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 Felty's syndrome?

Common symptoms include joint pain and swelling, particularly in the elbows, fatigue, recurrent infections due to neutropenia, and splenomegaly. Patients may also experience stiffness and decreased range of motion in affected joints.