Chronic postrheumatic arthropathy [Jaccoud], left hand

This code signifies a chronic, non-erosive arthropathy affecting the left hand, characterized by joint deformities and subluxations, typically occurring as a sequela of rheumatic fever. It represents a persistent joint condition resulting from the body's immune response to a prior streptococcal infection, specifically impacting the small joints of the left hand.

Apply this code when documentation clearly indicates Jaccoud's arthropathy affecting the left hand, following a history of rheumatic fever. This diagnosis is supported by findings of characteristic, often reducible, ulnar deviation and subluxation of the metacarpophalangeal joints of the left hand, without significant erosive changes.

• Ensure documentation specifies "chronic" and "left hand" to accurately assign this code.
• Distinguish from other forms of inflammatory arthropathy, such as rheumatoid arthritis, which typically presents with erosive changes.
• Code any underlying or active rheumatic heart disease or other sequelae of rheumatic fever separately.