Rheumatoid arthritis without rheumatoid factor, vertebrae

This code signifies a chronic autoimmune inflammatory disorder primarily affecting the joints, specifically the vertebral column, in patients who do not test positive for rheumatoid factor. It represents a seronegative form of rheumatoid arthritis impacting the spine, leading to pain, stiffness, and potential structural damage.

Apply this code when documentation clearly indicates a diagnosis of rheumatoid arthritis affecting the vertebrae, and laboratory results confirm the absence of rheumatoid factor. This is appropriate for patients presenting with inflammatory back pain, morning stiffness, and imaging findings consistent with spondylitis in the context of seronegative RA.

• Ensure documentation explicitly states "seronegative" or "without rheumatoid factor" in conjunction with vertebral involvement.
• Do not use this code if rheumatoid factor is positive; instead, refer to codes for seropositive rheumatoid arthritis.
• Consider sequencing this code as a primary diagnosis when it is the main reason for the encounter, or as a secondary diagnosis if it is a co-morbidity impacting treatment.