Juvenile osteochondrosis of spine, multiple sites in spine

This code signifies a developmental disorder affecting the growth plates of the vertebrae in children and adolescents, specifically when multiple spinal segments are involved. It represents a non-inflammatory disturbance of endochondral ossification, leading to structural changes in the vertebral bodies. This condition is often referred to as Scheuermann's disease when it affects the thoracic and/or lumbar spine.

Use this code for patients under 18 years old diagnosed with osteochondrosis affecting several distinct areas of their spine. Documentation should clearly indicate "juvenile osteochondrosis" or "Scheuermann's disease" and specify involvement of more than one spinal region (e.g., thoracic and lumbar, or cervical and thoracic). Radiographic findings confirming vertebral endplate irregularities, wedging, and Schmorl's nodes across multiple levels support this diagnosis.

• Ensure the patient's age is consistent with "juvenile" (typically under 18 years old).
• Distinguish from adult osteochondrosis (M42.1-) which has different underlying etiologies.
• Confirm documentation explicitly states "multiple sites" or lists specific affected spinal regions to justify the "multiple sites" specificity.