Other specified arthritis, left shoulder

This code signifies a diagnosis of arthritis affecting the left shoulder joint, where the specific type of arthritis is known but does not fit into more specific ICD-10-CM categories (e.g., rheumatoid, osteoarthritis, gout). It indicates an inflammatory or degenerative joint condition impacting the left glenohumeral joint or surrounding structures.

Apply this code when documentation clearly states "other specified arthritis" of the left shoulder, or when a specific type of arthritis is identified but lacks a more precise ICD-10-CM code for the left shoulder. Supporting documentation should include a physician's diagnosis specifying the left shoulder and the "other specified" nature of the arthritis.

• Ensure the documentation explicitly states "left shoulder" to avoid laterality errors.
• Review the medical record for more specific arthritis types (e.g., M05.xx, M15.xx, M1A.xx) before defaulting to this "other specified" code.
• If the laterality is unspecified, consider using the unspecified laterality code for other specified arthritis (M13.819).