ICD-10 Code M05.44 – Rheumatoid myopathy with rheumatoid arthritis of hand (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code M05.44 – Rheumatoid myopathy with rheumatoid arthritis of hand
What it is
This code identifies rheumatoid arthritis affecting the hand together with rheumatoid myopathy, meaning muscle involvement associated with the rheumatoid disease. Use it when the record documents both conditions in the same hand.
Clinical signs
Typical findings may include inflammatory hand joint pain, swelling, stiffness, and reduced hand function, along with muscle weakness or myopathic changes. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation.
When to use this code
Use M05.44 when the provider clearly documents rheumatoid myopathy and rheumatoid arthritis involving the hand. The record should support both the rheumatoid arthritis diagnosis and the muscle involvement in the same anatomic site. If laterality or additional joint detail is specified, code to the highest level of specificity available.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for rheumatoid arthritis of the hand without documented myopathy, or for nonspecific hand pain and weakness alone. Check documentation if the myopathy is not clearly linked to rheumatoid disease.
Coding tip
Verify that both “rheumatoid myopathy” and “rheumatoid arthritis of hand” are documented before assigning M05.44.