Rheumatoid arthritis without rheumatoid factor, left hip

This code signifies a chronic autoimmune inflammatory condition affecting the left hip joint, characterized by synovitis and potential joint destruction, but without the presence of rheumatoid factor antibodies in the patient's blood. It represents seronegative rheumatoid arthritis specifically impacting the left hip.

This code is appropriate when documentation confirms a diagnosis of rheumatoid arthritis, laboratory tests indicate a negative rheumatoid factor, and the left hip is identified as the affected joint. It should be used for patients presenting with symptoms such as pain, swelling, and stiffness in the left hip, and where seronegative RA has been clinically established.

• Ensure documentation clearly specifies "left hip" as the affected joint and explicitly states "without rheumatoid factor" or "seronegative."
• Do not confuse with codes for seropositive rheumatoid arthritis (M05.-) or other forms of inflammatory arthritis.
• Always sequence this code after any underlying systemic conditions or before codes for associated complications or manifestations.