Rheu arthritis of left hand w involv of organs and systems

This code signifies a diagnosis of rheumatoid arthritis affecting the left hand, where the inflammatory process has extended beyond the joints to impact other bodily systems or organs. This systemic involvement can manifest in various ways, such as vasculitis, lung disease, or cardiac complications, in addition to the characteristic joint inflammation.

Apply this code when documentation clearly indicates rheumatoid arthritis primarily affecting the left hand, alongside evidence of extra-articular manifestations or systemic complications. This requires physician documentation specifying both the left hand involvement and the presence of other organ or system involvement due to the rheumatoid arthritis.

• Ensure documentation explicitly states "left hand" involvement and identifies the specific "other organs and systems" affected.
• Do not use this code if the systemic involvement is not directly attributed to the rheumatoid arthritis.
• Consider sequencing this code with additional codes to specify the particular organ or system involvement, if applicable and supported by documentation.