Other specified crystal arthropathies, unspecified wrist

This code signifies a diagnosis of crystal-induced arthritis affecting the wrist, where the specific type of crystal (e.g., gout, pseudogout) has not been identified or is not one of the more common, separately classified crystal arthropathies. It indicates an inflammatory joint condition caused by crystal deposition within the wrist joint.

Use this code when documentation clearly states "crystal arthropathy of the wrist" without specifying the crystal type, or when the physician identifies a crystal arthropathy that doesn't fit a more specific ICD-10-CM code. This code is appropriate when the wrist is the affected joint and the laterality is not documented.

• Ensure the documentation explicitly mentions "wrist" as the affected joint.
• Avoid using this code if a more specific crystal arthropathy (e.g., gout, pseudogout) is identified; always code to the highest level of specificity.
• If laterality (right or left wrist) is documented, choose the appropriate laterality-specific code (M11.831 or M11.832).