Rheumatoid bursitis, left hand

This code signifies inflammation of the bursae in the left hand, specifically when this inflammation is a manifestation of rheumatoid arthritis. It indicates a localized inflammatory process affecting the synovial sacs that cushion joints, occurring in the context of a systemic autoimmune disease.

Apply this code when documentation clearly states rheumatoid bursitis affecting the left hand. This diagnosis is supported by clinical findings of bursal inflammation (e.g., swelling, pain, tenderness) in the left hand, coupled with a confirmed diagnosis of rheumatoid arthritis.

• Ensure documentation specifies "rheumatoid" bursitis; otherwise, a non-rheumatoid bursitis code may be more appropriate.
• Verify the laterality (left hand) is explicitly stated in the medical record.
• Always code the underlying rheumatoid arthritis (e.g., M05.xx or M06.xx) as the primary diagnosis, with this code as a secondary diagnosis.