ICD-10 Code M05.129 – Rheumatoid lung disease with rheumatoid arthritis of unspecified elbow (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code M05.129 – Rheumatoid lung disease with rheumatoid arthritis of unspecified elbow
What it is
This code identifies rheumatoid arthritis affecting an unspecified elbow, with associated rheumatoid lung disease. Use it when the record links both the joint involvement and pulmonary manifestation to rheumatoid arthritis.
Clinical signs
Findings may include chronic elbow pain, swelling, stiffness, or reduced range of motion, along with respiratory features of rheumatoid lung disease. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation.
When to use this code
Use M05.129 when the provider documents rheumatoid arthritis of an unspecified elbow and states that rheumatoid lung disease is present. This supports coding of both the joint site and the systemic lung complication. If the elbow laterality is documented, use the more specific code.
Do not use for
Do not use this code if rheumatoid lung disease is not documented or if the elbow involvement is not linked to rheumatoid arthritis. Check documentation for laterality and for alternative diagnoses such as non-rheumatoid lung disease.
Coding tip
Confirm that the note explicitly connects the pulmonary condition to rheumatoid arthritis before assigning M05.129.