Other specified rheumatoid arthritis, unspecified shoulder

This code signifies a form of rheumatoid arthritis that doesn't fit into more specific categories, affecting the shoulder joint. It indicates the presence of inflammatory arthritis with systemic manifestations, but the specific type of rheumatoid arthritis is not further detailed. The laterality of the affected shoulder is also not specified.

Use this code when documentation confirms a diagnosis of rheumatoid arthritis impacting the shoulder, but the physician has not specified a particular type (e.g., with rheumatoid factor, without rheumatoid factor, juvenile onset). This code is appropriate when the medical record clearly states "other specified rheumatoid arthritis" affecting an unspecified shoulder.

• Ensure documentation explicitly states "other specified rheumatoid arthritis" and involvement of the shoulder.
• Avoid using this code if the laterality of the shoulder (left or right) is documented; instead, choose a more specific code.
• Do not use this code for osteoarthritis or other forms of arthritis; it is specific to rheumatoid arthritis.