Other reactive arthropathies, multiple sites

This code signifies an inflammatory joint condition that develops in response to an infection elsewhere in the body, affecting multiple joints. It represents a sterile arthritis, meaning the joint itself is not infected, but rather the immune system's reaction to an antecedent infection causes the joint inflammation.

Apply this code when documentation indicates a reactive arthropathy affecting more than one joint, and the specific type of reactive arthropathy is not otherwise specified or falls outside of other defined categories (e.g., Reiter's syndrome, post-dysenteric, post-chlamydial). Supporting documentation should clearly state "reactive arthropathy" and specify involvement of multiple sites, often following a gastrointestinal or genitourinary infection.

• Ensure documentation specifies "multiple sites" to differentiate from single-site reactive arthropathies.
• Always code the underlying infection, if known and still active, as a primary diagnosis when applicable.
• Distinguish from other inflammatory arthropathies (e.g., rheumatoid arthritis) which have different etiologies and diagnostic criteria.