Algoneurodystrophy, unspecified hand

This code describes a complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS) affecting an unspecified hand, characterized by chronic pain, swelling, and trophic changes. It represents a neuropathic pain disorder that can develop after trauma or surgery, leading to significant functional impairment.

Apply this code when documentation clearly indicates a diagnosis of algoneurodystrophy, also known as CRPS Type I, localized to the hand without further specification of laterality. This code is appropriate when the medical record confirms the presence of characteristic symptoms such as allodynia, hyperalgesia, edema, and vasomotor instability in the affected hand.

• Ensure documentation specifies "unspecified hand" if laterality is not documented. If left or right hand is specified, a more specific code should be used.
• This code is for CRPS Type I (reflex sympathetic dystrophy) where a specific nerve lesion is not identified. If a nerve lesion is present, consider codes for CRPS Type II.
• Always sequence this code as a primary diagnosis when it is the reason for the encounter, or as a secondary diagnosis if it is a co-morbidity affecting treatment.