Spinal enthesopathy, thoracolumbar region

This code signifies an inflammatory or degenerative condition affecting the entheses (sites where tendons, ligaments, or joint capsules attach to bone) within the thoracolumbar spine. It specifically points to pathology at these attachment points, rather than a primary disc or vertebral body issue.

Utilize this code when documentation explicitly states enthesopathy affecting the thoracic, lumbar, or lumbosacral regions of the spine. This diagnosis is often associated with spondyloarthropathies or other inflammatory conditions, but can also be degenerative. Supporting documentation should detail the specific spinal region involved.

• Ensure the documentation specifies "enthesopathy" and not just general back pain or spondylosis.
• Do not use this code for enthesopathy in other spinal regions; specific codes exist for cervical and sacral enthesopathy.
• Consider co-reporting with codes for underlying systemic inflammatory conditions (e.g., ankylosing spondylitis) if documented.