Postimmunization arthropathy, right hand

This code signifies inflammation and pain in the joints of the right hand that develops as an adverse reaction following an immunization. It represents a sterile arthritis, meaning it is not caused by an infection, but rather an immune response triggered by the vaccine.

Use this code when documentation clearly states arthropathy affecting the right hand, with a direct causal link to a recent vaccination. This typically presents as joint pain, swelling, and stiffness in the right hand occurring days to weeks post-immunization. Documentation should specify the laterality (right hand) and the post-immunization etiology.

• Ensure documentation explicitly links the arthropathy to a recent immunization and specifies the right hand.
• Do not confuse with infectious arthritis (M00.-) or other inflammatory arthropathies not related to immunization.
• Always sequence this code first if it is the primary reason for the encounter, followed by a code for the specific vaccine if known (e.g., Z23 for encounter for immunization).