Osteonecrosis due to drugs, unspecified finger(s)

This code signifies the death of bone tissue in an unspecified finger due to the adverse effects of medication. This condition, also known as avascular necrosis, results from an interruption of blood supply to the bone, leading to bone collapse and potential joint destruction.

Apply this code when documentation clearly indicates osteonecrosis affecting any finger, and the etiology is directly attributed to drug use (e.g., corticosteroids, bisphosphonates). This diagnosis is typically supported by imaging studies (X-ray, MRI) confirming bone necrosis and a detailed patient history of relevant medication exposure.

• Ensure documentation specifies "unspecified finger(s)" if a more precise finger is not identified.
• Always code the specific drug causing the osteonecrosis as an adverse effect (T36-T50 with a 5th or 6th character of 5).
• Distinguish from osteonecrosis due to other causes (e.g., trauma, alcoholism) which have different M87 subcategories.