Other specified rheumatoid arthritis, unspecified hand

This code signifies a form of rheumatoid arthritis that doesn't fit into more specific categories, affecting an unspecified hand. It indicates the presence of chronic systemic inflammatory disease primarily impacting the joints of the hand, without further detail regarding laterality or specific joint involvement.

Use this code when documentation confirms a diagnosis of rheumatoid arthritis with involvement of the hand, but the physician has not specified which hand (left or right) or the specific type of rheumatoid arthritis (e.g., with organ involvement, with rheumatoid factor). This code is appropriate when the medical record explicitly states "rheumatoid arthritis of the hand, unspecified" or similar.

• Avoid using this code if laterality (left or right hand) is documented; instead, choose a more specific code from the M06.84- series.
• Ensure documentation supports "other specified" rheumatoid arthritis, meaning it's not seropositive, seronegative, or juvenile.
• Always query the provider for greater specificity regarding laterality and the specific type of rheumatoid arthritis if not clearly documented.