Spinal enthesopathy, cervicothoracic region

This code describes a degenerative condition affecting the entheses (sites where tendons, ligaments, or joint capsules attach to bone) in the cervicothoracic spine. It involves inflammation, pain, and structural changes at these attachment points, often leading to stiffness and reduced range of motion in the neck and upper back.

Use this code when documentation specifies enthesopathy localized to the cervicothoracic region of the spine. This diagnosis is supported by physician notes detailing pain, tenderness, and imaging findings (e.g., X-ray, MRI) showing entheseal changes or inflammation at C7-T1 or adjacent levels. It is often associated with spondyloarthropathies but can also occur in isolation.

• Ensure the documentation explicitly states "enthesopathy" and specifies the "cervicothoracic region."
• Do not confuse with general spondylosis or disc degeneration; enthesopathy refers specifically to the ligamentous/tendinous attachments.
• Code any underlying systemic conditions (e.g., ankylosing spondylitis, psoriatic arthritis) as primary diagnoses if they are the cause of the enthesopathy.