Rheumatoid bursitis, unspecified shoulder

This code signifies inflammation of the bursa associated with rheumatoid arthritis, specifically affecting an unspecified shoulder joint. It indicates a localized manifestation of rheumatoid disease characterized by pain, swelling, and restricted movement in the shoulder due to bursal involvement.

Apply this code when documentation clearly states "rheumatoid bursitis" of the shoulder, without specifying laterality (left or right). This diagnosis is typically supported by clinical examination findings consistent with bursitis in a patient with a confirmed or suspected diagnosis of rheumatoid arthritis.

• Ensure the documentation explicitly links the bursitis to rheumatoid arthritis; otherwise, a non-rheumatoid bursitis code may be more appropriate.
• If laterality (left or right shoulder) is documented, use the more specific M06.211 or M06.212 code.
• Always sequence a code for the underlying rheumatoid arthritis (e.g., from category M05 or M06) before this code, as it represents a manifestation of the systemic disease.