Primary osteoarthritis, left hand

This diagnosis code signifies degenerative joint disease affecting the left hand, specifically due to primary osteoarthritis. It indicates cartilage breakdown and bone changes in the hand joints, not secondary to trauma or other underlying conditions.

Apply this code when documentation explicitly states primary osteoarthritis affecting the left hand. This typically includes findings such as joint pain, stiffness, swelling, and crepitus localized to the left hand, confirmed by imaging (e.g., X-ray) showing characteristic osteoarthritic changes.

• Ensure the documentation specifies "primary" osteoarthritis to differentiate from secondary forms.
• Verify laterality; this code is specific to the left hand.
• Do not use if the osteoarthritis is due to trauma, infection, or another underlying systemic condition; instead, code the secondary osteoarthritis and the underlying cause.