Wiki Osteoarthritis M15.0 vs M19.90 vs M19.91

MeanderingMichigander

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Would someone be able to explain to me the difference between:
  • M15.0 - Primary generalized osteoarthritis
  • M19.90 - Unspecified osteoarthritis, unspecified site
  • M19.91 - Primary osteoarthritis, unspecified site
I've seen each of these used for a patient with primary OA of multiple sites when the sites are not individually specified, but I'm having trouble determining which would be the most appropriate.

Thanks in advance!!
 
Hi,
Default in coding when no other cause is specified is to Primary osteoarthritis. Generalized or polyosteoarthritis involves multiple joints, not just bilateral joints of the same site. Usually 3+ or 5+. The physician should be queried for clarity on site and type.
Hope this helps,
 
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