Intermittent hydrarthrosis, right wrist

This code signifies recurrent, self-limiting episodes of joint swelling due to excessive synovial fluid accumulation in the right wrist. It is characterized by acute, painful effusions that resolve spontaneously over several days, often without a clear precipitating factor.

Apply this code when documentation explicitly states "intermittent hydrarthrosis" affecting the right wrist. Supporting clinical notes should describe episodic swelling and fluid accumulation in the specified joint, distinct from chronic inflammatory or degenerative conditions.

• Ensure laterality (right wrist) is clearly documented; separate codes exist for left, bilateral, and unspecified.
• Distinguish from chronic hydrarthrosis or other forms of synovitis, which have different ICD-10-CM codes.
• Always review for any underlying systemic conditions or specific arthropathies that might require additional coding.