ICD-10 Code M06.039 – Rheumatoid arthritis without rheumatoid factor, unspecified wrist (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code M06.039 – Rheumatoid arthritis without rheumatoid factor, unspecified wrist
What it is
This code identifies rheumatoid arthritis affecting the wrist when rheumatoid factor is not present or not documented, and the side is unspecified. Use it for inflammatory arthritis of the wrist with RA features, not a different arthropathy.
Clinical signs
Typical findings include wrist pain, swelling, stiffness, and reduced range of motion. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation for evidence of inflammatory arthritis and the absence of rheumatoid factor when recorded.
When to use this code
Use M06.039 when the provider documents rheumatoid arthritis without rheumatoid factor and does not specify right or left wrist. It also fits cases where the wrist is the affected joint and seronegative status is part of the diagnosis. Check documentation if the record names another joint, a specific wrist side, or a different inflammatory condition.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for rheumatoid arthritis with rheumatoid factor, or for wrist pain without a documented rheumatoid arthritis diagnosis. It is also wrong for a specified right or left wrist code.
Coding tip
Confirm both the seronegative RA wording and the unspecified wrist laterality before assigning M06.039.