ICD-10 Code M05.229 – Rheumatoid vasculitis with rheumatoid arthritis of unspecified elbow (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code M05.229 – Rheumatoid vasculitis with rheumatoid arthritis of unspecified elbow
What it is
This code identifies rheumatoid arthritis affecting an unspecified elbow, with associated rheumatoid vasculitis. Use it when the record confirms both the joint involvement and the vasculitic complication.
Clinical signs
Findings may include chronic inflammatory arthritis with elbow pain, swelling, stiffness, and reduced motion. Rheumatoid vasculitis can present with skin, nerve, or other systemic involvement; clinical features vary, so refer to documentation.
When to use this code
Use this code when the provider documents rheumatoid arthritis with vasculitis and specifies the elbow, but does not identify right or left. It is appropriate for encounters where the elbow is the documented joint site and the vasculitic complication is confirmed. Check documentation if laterality is available.
Do not use for
Do not use this code if rheumatoid vasculitis is not documented or if the elbow laterality is specified elsewhere in the record. Do not assign it for nonspecific rheumatoid arthritis without vasculitis.
Coding tip
Verify both the vasculitis diagnosis and the unspecified elbow site before coding; if laterality is documented, choose the more specific code.