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ICD-10 Coding for Pseudogout(M11.20, M11.271)

Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Pseudogout. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.

Also known as:

ChondrocalcinosisCalcium Pyrophosphate Dihydrate (CPPD) Crystal Deposition Disease

Related ICD-10 Code Ranges

Complete code families applicable to Pseudogout

M11.2-M11.29Primary Range

Other chondrocalcinosis

This range covers pseudogout and its specific joint involvement.

Code Comparison: When to Use Each Code

Compare key differences between these codes to ensure accurate selection

CodeDescriptionWhen to UseKey Documentation
M11.20Chondrocalcinosis, unspecified siteUse when the specific joint is not identified.
  • Imaging showing chondrocalcinosis
  • Clinical diagnosis of CPPD
M11.271Chondrocalcinosis, right ankle and footUse for acute pseudogout flare in the right ankle.
  • Imaging showing chondrocalcinosis in the right ankle
  • Synovial fluid analysis confirming CPPD crystals

Clinical Decision Support

Always review the patient's clinical documentation thoroughly. When in doubt, choose the more specific code and ensure documentation supports it.

Key Information: ICD-10 code for pseudogout

Essential facts and insights about Pseudogout

The ICD-10 code for pseudogout is M11.20 for unspecified site, with specific codes like M11.271 for right ankle involvement.

Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for pseudogout

Chondrocalcinosis, unspecified site
Billable Code

Decision Criteria

clinical Criteria

  • Presence of CPPD crystals in synovial fluid.

Applicable To

  • Chondrocalcinosis NOS
  • CPPD without acute flare

Excludes

  • Gout (M10.-)
  • Rheumatoid arthritis (M05.-)

Clinical Validation Requirements

  • Imaging showing chondrocalcinosis
  • Clinical diagnosis of CPPD

Code-Specific Risks

  • May lead to denials if used without specifying the joint.

Coding Notes

  • Ensure joint specificity for accurate coding.

Ancillary Codes

Additional codes that should be used in conjunction with the main diagnosis codes when applicable.

Pain in joint

M25.5-
Use to document joint pain associated with pseudogout.

Pain in right ankle and joints of right foot

M25.571
Use to document pain associated with pseudogout flare.

Differential Codes

Alternative codes to consider when ruling out similar conditions to the primary diagnosis.

Gout, unspecified

M10.9
Presence of monosodium urate crystals.

Gout, right ankle and foot

M10.071
Presence of monosodium urate crystals.

Documentation & Coding Risks

Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Pseudogout to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code M11.20.

Impact

Clinical: Inaccurate diagnosis and treatment planning., Regulatory: Non-compliance with ICD-10 coding guidelines., Financial: Potential claim denials or reduced reimbursement.

Mitigation Strategy

Always document the specific joint involved., Use imaging and synovial analysis to confirm diagnosis.

Impact

Reimbursement: May lead to claim denials or reduced reimbursement., Compliance: Non-compliance with ICD-10 specificity requirements., Data Quality: Inaccurate data on joint-specific pseudogout cases.

Mitigation Strategy

Use specific codes like M11.271 for joint-specific acute flares.

Impact

Audits may target claims lacking joint-specific documentation.

Mitigation Strategy

Ensure all documentation specifies the joint involved in pseudogout.

Documentation errors, coding pitfalls, and audit risks are interconnected aspects of medical coding and billing. Addressing all three areas helps ensure accurate coding, optimal reimbursement, and regulatory compliance.

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about ICD-10 coding for Pseudogout, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.

Documentation Templates for Pseudogout

Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Pseudogout. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.

Acute pseudogout flare in the right ankle

Specialty: Rheumatology

Required Elements

  • Joint examination findings
  • Imaging results
  • Synovial fluid analysis

Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation

Poor Documentation Example
Patient has joint pain.
Good Documentation Example
Patient presents with acute swelling and pain in the right ankle. Imaging shows chondrocalcinosis. Synovial fluid analysis confirms CPPD crystals.
Explanation
The good example provides specific joint involvement and diagnostic confirmation.

Need help with ICD-10 coding for Pseudogout? Ask your questions below.

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