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v1.0.0
ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesM05.069

M05.069

Billable

Felty's syndrome, unspecified knee

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

Code Description

ICD-10 M05.069 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of felty's syndrome, unspecified knee.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Felty's syndrome is a rare complication of rheumatoid arthritis characterized by the triad of rheumatoid arthritis, splenomegaly, and leukopenia. The condition can lead to significant joint involvement, particularly in the knees, which are major weight-bearing joints. Anatomically, the knee consists of the femur, tibia, fibula, patella, and surrounding ligaments and cartilage. In Felty's syndrome, the inflammatory processes associated with rheumatoid arthritis can exacerbate joint damage, leading to pain, swelling, and decreased range of motion. Patients may experience systemic symptoms such as fatigue and malaise due to the underlying autoimmune process. Clinically, the presentation may include joint deformities and functional limitations, particularly in activities requiring knee flexion and extension. The pathophysiology involves immune-mediated inflammation that can result in synovitis and subsequent joint erosion, necessitating comprehensive management strategies.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Involvement of multiple body systems (musculoskeletal and hematologic)
  • Variability in clinical presentation and severity
  • Need for detailed documentation of joint involvement
  • Potential for overlapping diagnoses (e.g., rheumatoid arthritis)

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of systemic symptoms
  • Failure to specify laterality of knee involvement
  • Misclassification of severity or stage of rheumatoid arthritis
  • Lack of supporting evidence for splenomegaly or leukopenia

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Orthopedics

Documentation Requirements

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

Common Clinical Scenarios

Common scenarios include knee arthroplasty for severe joint damage or synovectomy for persistent synovitis.

Billing Considerations

Documenting the severity of joint involvement and any deformities is crucial for accurate coding.

Rheumatology

Documentation Requirements

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

Common Clinical Scenarios

Management of Felty's syndrome may involve immunosuppressive therapy or biologics to control systemic inflammation.

Billing Considerations

Documenting systemic involvement and monitoring for complications is essential.

Physical Medicine

Documentation Requirements

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

Common Clinical Scenarios

Rehabilitation scenarios may include physical therapy to improve joint function and mobility.

Billing Considerations

Assessing the impact of Felty's syndrome on daily activities and quality of life is important.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use M05.069 When
  • 10 coding guidelines require specificity in documenting laterality (e
  • , left knee, right knee) and the severity of the condition
  • Encounters should be coded based on the most current clinical findings and treatment plans

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use M05.069 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 knee joint aspiration in patients with Felty's syndrome to relieve swelling.

Documentation Requirements

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

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, including Felty's syndrome, which can improve the accuracy of patient records and facilitate better management strategies.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for greater specificity in coding musculoskeletal conditions, including Felty's syndrome, which can improve the accuracy of patient records and facilitate better management strategies.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

reimbursement.

Resources

Clinical References

  • •
    American College of Rheumatology Guidelines

Coding & Billing References

  • •
    American College of Rheumatology Guidelines

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the key features of Felty's syndrome?

Felty's syndrome is characterized by rheumatoid arthritis, splenomegaly, and leukopenia. It can lead to significant joint involvement, particularly in the knees, causing pain and functional limitations.