Charcot's joint, unspecified shoulder

This code represents a neuropathic arthropathy affecting the shoulder joint, specifically Charcot's joint. It is a progressive degenerative arthropathy resulting from loss of proprioception and pain sensation, leading to joint destruction. The "unspecified shoulder" indicates that laterality (left or right) is not documented.

Use this code when documentation clearly identifies Charcot's arthropathy impacting the shoulder, and the medical record does not specify whether it is the left or right shoulder. This typically occurs in patients with underlying neurological conditions such as diabetes mellitus, syphilis, or syringomyelia, which compromise nerve function to the joint.

• Do not use this code if laterality (left or right shoulder) is documented; instead, select the more specific code.
• Always code the underlying neurological condition responsible for the Charcot's joint as a primary or secondary diagnosis.
• Distinguish from other forms of degenerative arthritis (e.g., osteoarthritis) which have different etiologies and coding pathways.