Chronic multifocal osteomyelitis, left hand

This diagnosis code signifies a persistent, widespread infection of the bone and bone marrow affecting multiple sites within the left hand. It indicates a long-standing inflammatory process, often difficult to treat, that has spread beyond a single focal point in the hand.

Apply this code when documentation clearly states chronic osteomyelitis involving several bones or areas within the left hand. Supporting documentation should include physician notes detailing the chronicity (e.g., duration of symptoms, failed acute treatments) and the multifocal nature of the infection, often confirmed by imaging studies.

• Ensure the documentation specifies "chronic" and "multifocal" involvement of the left hand; otherwise, a more specific acute or localized code may be appropriate.
• Verify laterality. This code is specific to the left hand; use M86.341 for the right hand or M86.343 for bilateral involvement.
• Look for associated conditions, such as open wounds or foreign bodies, which may require additional coding to fully describe the patient's condition.