Osteolysis, unspecified shoulder

This code describes the pathological destruction or dissolution of bone tissue in an unspecified shoulder. It indicates a process of bone resorption that can lead to bone loss and structural weakness in the shoulder joint. This condition can arise from various etiologies, including inflammatory, infectious, neoplastic, or traumatic processes.

Use this code when documentation clearly states "osteolysis of the shoulder" without further specificity regarding the affected side (right or left). It is appropriate when the underlying cause of the osteolysis is either unknown, not yet determined, or not documented. Supporting documentation would include imaging reports (X-ray, MRI, CT) confirming bone destruction in the shoulder.

• Avoid using this code if the laterality (right or left shoulder) is specified in the medical record; instead, choose the more specific M89.511 or M89.512.
• Always attempt to code the underlying cause of the osteolysis first, if known and documented, as this code describes a manifestation.
• Do not confuse with osteonecrosis (M87.-), which specifically refers to bone death due to loss of blood supply, although osteolysis can be a secondary effect.