Rheumatoid bursitis, multiple sites

This code signifies inflammation of the bursae, the fluid-filled sacs that cushion joints, specifically when it is caused by rheumatoid arthritis and affects multiple anatomical locations. It indicates a systemic manifestation of rheumatoid disease impacting several bursal sites simultaneously.

Apply this code when documentation clearly states "rheumatoid bursitis" and specifies involvement of more than one bursa. This diagnosis is typically supported by clinical findings of inflammation, pain, and swelling in multiple bursal areas, alongside a confirmed diagnosis of rheumatoid arthritis.

• Ensure the documentation explicitly links the bursitis to rheumatoid arthritis; otherwise, a non-rheumatoid bursitis code may be more appropriate.
• Verify that "multiple sites" are documented. If only a single site is affected, a more specific code indicating the anatomical location should be used.
• Always sequence the underlying rheumatoid arthritis code (e.g., from the M05 or M06 category) as the primary diagnosis, with this code as a secondary diagnosis to specify the manifestation.