Pauciarticular juvenile rheumatoid arthritis, right hand

This code signifies a chronic inflammatory arthropathy affecting four or fewer joints, specifically located in the right hand, with an onset before 16 years of age. It is a subtype of juvenile idiopathic arthritis characterized by persistent inflammation, pain, and swelling in the affected joints.

Apply this code when documentation clearly indicates a diagnosis of pauciarticular juvenile rheumatoid arthritis, with the affected joints localized to the patient's right hand. This diagnosis is typically made by a rheumatologist based on clinical examination, laboratory findings, and exclusion of other conditions.

• Ensure the documentation specifies "pauciarticular" and clearly identifies the "right hand" as the affected site.
• Distinguish from polyarticular forms of juvenile rheumatoid arthritis, which involve five or more joints.
• Always sequence this code as a primary diagnosis when it is the reason for the encounter.