Juvenile arthritis, unspecified, unspecified knee

This code signifies a diagnosis of juvenile arthritis where the specific type of juvenile arthritis is not documented, and the affected knee (left or right) is also unspecified. It indicates a chronic inflammatory joint condition affecting individuals under 16 years of age, presenting with symptoms such as joint pain, swelling, and stiffness in the knee.

This code is appropriate when the medical record clearly states a diagnosis of juvenile arthritis affecting the knee, but the provider has not specified the exact subtype (e.g., oligoarticular, polyarticular, systemic) or the laterality of the affected knee. Documentation should confirm the diagnosis of juvenile arthritis and involvement of the knee joint without further specificity.

• Avoid using this code if the specific type of juvenile arthritis (e.g., M08.0x, M08.2x) or the laterality of the knee (e.g., M08.961, M08.962) is documented.
• Query the provider for more specific information regarding the type of juvenile arthritis and the affected knee(s) whenever possible to allow for more precise coding.
• This code should be sequenced as a primary diagnosis when it is the reason for the encounter.