Postdysenteric arthropathy, unspecified hand

This code describes an inflammatory joint condition affecting an unspecified hand, occurring as a reactive sequela to a previous enteric infection (dysentery). It is a form of reactive arthritis where the immune system mistakenly attacks joint tissues following a bacterial infection, typically in the gastrointestinal tract.

Use this code when documentation clearly indicates reactive arthropathy of the hand, specifically linked to a preceding episode of dysentery, and the specific hand (left or right) is not specified. This diagnosis is supported by a history of dysentery followed by the development of hand joint pain, swelling, and stiffness, often confirmed by laboratory findings ruling out other causes.

• Ensure the documentation explicitly links the arthropathy to a post-dysenteric origin.
• If the specific hand (left or right) is documented, use the more specific codes M02.141 (right hand) or M02.142 (left hand).
• Code the underlying infectious disease (e.g., Shigellosis, Salmonella enteritis) as a secondary diagnosis if it is still active or relevant to the current encounter.