ICD-10 Code M06.22 – Rheumatoid bursitis, elbow (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code M06.22 – Rheumatoid bursitis, elbow
What it is
M06.22 identifies rheumatoid bursitis affecting the elbow. Use it when inflammation of the bursa is documented as part of rheumatoid arthritis, causing pain and swelling around the joint.
Clinical signs
Typical findings include localized elbow swelling, tenderness, warmth, and reduced motion from inflamed bursal tissue. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation.
When to use this code
Use M06.22 when the provider documents rheumatoid bursitis specifically in the elbow, or when the elbow bursa is described as involved by rheumatoid disease. Code it from the documented diagnosis, not from elbow pain alone.
If the note identifies bursitis without rheumatoid cause, or rheumatoid arthritis without elbow bursitis, choose the more accurate code. Check documentation for laterality, if needed, and for any additional rheumatoid manifestations.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for traumatic, septic, or nonspecific elbow bursitis. It is also not appropriate when the record only mentions rheumatoid arthritis without bursitis.
Coding tip
Confirm both the rheumatoid cause and the elbow location in the note before assigning M06.22.