Osteonecrosis due to drugs, left humerus

This diagnosis code signifies the death of bone tissue in the left upper arm bone (humerus) that is directly caused by the use of certain medications. This condition leads to bone collapse and can result in pain and functional impairment of the shoulder and arm.

Apply this code when documentation clearly states osteonecrosis of the left humerus and explicitly links its etiology to drug use (e.g., corticosteroids, bisphosphonates). Supporting documentation should include imaging reports (X-ray, MRI) confirming osteonecrosis and a detailed patient history of relevant drug exposure.

• Ensure the laterality (left humerus) is clearly documented.
• Distinguish from osteonecrosis due to other causes (e.g., trauma, alcoholism), which have different codes.
• Always code the specific drug causing the osteonecrosis as an additional diagnosis, if known and documented.