Palindromic rheumatism, unspecified wrist

This code signifies a form of inflammatory arthritis characterized by recurrent, self-limiting episodes of joint pain and swelling, specifically affecting an unspecified wrist. Unlike chronic forms of arthritis, palindromic rheumatism attacks resolve completely between episodes, leaving no permanent joint damage.

Apply this code when documentation confirms a diagnosis of palindromic rheumatism with the affected site identified as the wrist, but without further specification of laterality (left or right). This code is appropriate when the physician explicitly states "palindromic rheumatism of the wrist" or similar, and no other specific inflammatory arthropathy is identified.

• Ensure the documentation clearly specifies "palindromic rheumatism" and the involvement of the wrist.
• Avoid using this code if a more specific diagnosis, such as rheumatoid arthritis or psoriatic arthritis, is documented.
• If laterality (left or right wrist) is specified in the medical record, a more specific code from the M12.33- subcategory should be used.