Rheumatoid bursitis, unspecified elbow

This code signifies inflammation of the bursa associated with rheumatoid arthritis, specifically affecting an unspecified elbow. It indicates a localized inflammatory process within the elbow joint region, secondary to the systemic autoimmune condition of rheumatoid arthritis.

Use this code when documentation clearly states "rheumatoid bursitis" of the elbow, without specifying laterality (right or left). This diagnosis is typically supported by clinical examination findings consistent with bursitis and a confirmed diagnosis of rheumatoid arthritis.

• Always attempt to code to the highest level of specificity; if laterality (right or left elbow) is documented, a more specific code should be used.
• This code requires a co-existing diagnosis of rheumatoid arthritis (e.g., from the M05 or M06 categories) to support the "rheumatoid" etiology.
• Do not use this code for non-rheumatoid bursitis of the elbow; refer to codes in the M70 category for other forms of bursitis.