Pauciarticular juvenile rheumatoid arthritis, left hand

This code signifies a chronic inflammatory joint disease affecting four or fewer joints, specifically located in the left hand, with onset before 16 years of age. It is a subtype of juvenile idiopathic arthritis characterized by persistent arthritis in a limited number of joints.

Apply this code when documentation confirms a diagnosis of pauciarticular juvenile rheumatoid arthritis affecting only the left hand. This diagnosis is typically supported by a rheumatologist's assessment, including physical examination findings of arthritis in the left hand and exclusion of other conditions.

• Ensure documentation specifies "pauciarticular" and clearly identifies the "left hand" as the affected site.
• Do not use this code if more than four joints are involved or if the affected site is not the left hand.
• Consider sequencing this code after any associated systemic manifestations or complications, if applicable.