Juvenile osteochondrosis of patella, unspecified knee

This code represents an unspecified form of juvenile osteochondrosis affecting the patella, commonly known as Sinding-Larsen-Johansson disease or patellar apex apophysitis. It is a condition characterized by inflammation and microtrauma at the inferior pole of the patella, typically seen in active adolescents.

Use this code when documentation indicates juvenile osteochondrosis of the patella without specifying laterality (left or right knee). This diagnosis is often supported by clinical findings of localized pain, tenderness, and swelling at the inferior patellar pole in an adolescent patient, often exacerbated by physical activity.

• Ensure documentation clearly states "unspecified knee" or does not specify laterality. If laterality is known, use the more specific codes (M92.41 or M92.42).
• Do not confuse this with Osgood-Schlatter disease (tibial tuberosity osteochondrosis), which has a different code.
• Consider sequencing this code as a primary diagnosis when it is the reason for the encounter, or as a secondary diagnosis if it is a comorbidity affecting treatment.