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v1.0.0
ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesM05.09

M05.09

Billable

Felty's syndrome, multiple sites

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

Code Description

ICD-10 M05.09 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of felty's syndrome, multiple sites.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Felty's syndrome is a rare autoimmune disorder characterized by the triad of rheumatoid arthritis (RA), splenomegaly, and neutropenia. It primarily affects the musculoskeletal system, leading to joint inflammation and damage. Anatomically, the condition involves multiple joints, particularly the hands, wrists, and knees, where synovial inflammation occurs, resulting in pain, swelling, and reduced mobility. The pathophysiology involves an autoimmune response where the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks its own tissues, particularly affecting the synovial membranes of joints. Clinically, patients present with symptoms of RA, including morning stiffness, joint deformities, and systemic symptoms such as fatigue and weight loss. The presence of splenomegaly can lead to increased risk of infections due to neutropenia, complicating the management of joint symptoms. Overall, Felty's syndrome requires a multidisciplinary approach for effective management, including rheumatologic and orthopedic interventions.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: High

High Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Multiple joint involvement requiring detailed documentation of affected sites
  • Need for differentiation from other autoimmune disorders
  • Complexity of associated systemic symptoms and their management
  • Potential for overlapping conditions complicating coding

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of joint involvement and severity
  • Failure to document systemic symptoms associated with Felty's syndrome
  • Misclassification of the condition as a simpler form of rheumatoid arthritis
  • Lack of supporting lab results for neutropenia

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Orthopedics

Documentation Requirements

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

Common Clinical Scenarios

Common scenarios include surgical interventions for joint deformities or severe arthritis, such as arthroplasty or synovectomy.

Billing Considerations

Joint-specific considerations include documenting the severity of joint involvement, range of motion limitations, and any surgical history.

Rheumatology

Documentation Requirements

Rheumatologic documentation must include laboratory tests for rheumatoid factor, anti-CCP antibodies, and complete blood counts to monitor neutrophil levels and disease activity.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Clinical scenarios often involve managing flare-ups of RA symptoms, adjusting DMARD therapy, and monitoring for complications related to neutropenia.

Billing Considerations

Systemic involvement must be documented, including any signs of splenomegaly and infections, as well as the impact on overall health.

Physical Medicine

Documentation Requirements

Functional assessments should evaluate the patient's ability to perform daily activities, mobility assessments, and any need for assistive devices.

Common Clinical Scenarios

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

Billing Considerations

Mobility limitations should be documented, including the need for assistive devices like walkers or braces.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use M05.09 When
  • Follow official coding guidelines for laterality (if applicable), severity of joint involvement, and type of encounter (initial, follow
  • up, or acute)
  • Ensure that all relevant clinical information is documented to support the diagnosis

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use M05.09 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 swelling management in Felty's syndrome patients.

Documentation Requirements

Document the joint involved, amount of fluid removed, and any therapeutic agents injected.

Specialty Considerations

Orthopedic considerations include assessing joint stability and potential for further intervention.

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for greater specificity in coding Felty's syndrome, enabling coders to capture the complexity of the condition and its manifestations more accurately.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for greater specificity in coding Felty's syndrome, enabling coders to capture the complexity of the condition and its manifestations more accurately.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for greater specificity in coding Felty's syndrome, enabling coders to capture the complexity of the condition and its manifestations more accurately.

Resources

Clinical References

  • •
    American College of Rheumatology Guidelines

Coding & Billing References

  • •
    American College of Rheumatology Guidelines

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the key symptoms of Felty's syndrome?

Key symptoms include joint pain and swelling due to rheumatoid arthritis, splenomegaly, and recurrent infections due to neutropenia. Patients may also experience fatigue and weight loss.