ICD-10 Code M05.542 – Rheumatoid polyneuropathy with rheumatoid arthritis of left hand (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code M05.542 – Rheumatoid polyneuropathy with rheumatoid arthritis of left hand
What it is
This code identifies rheumatoid arthritis affecting the left hand with associated polyneuropathy. Use it when the record documents both the inflammatory joint disease and a nerve disorder linked to rheumatoid disease.
Clinical signs
Findings may include painful, swollen, or stiff hand joints plus sensory or motor nerve symptoms such as numbness, tingling, weakness, or reduced hand function. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation.
When to use this code
Use this code when the provider specifically documents rheumatoid arthritis of the left hand and rheumatoid polyneuropathy. It supports cases where nerve involvement is attributed to rheumatoid disease rather than another cause. Check documentation if the laterality or neuropathy relationship is unclear.
Do not use for
Do not use it for rheumatoid arthritis without documented polyneuropathy, or for neuropathy from diabetes, trauma, or another non-rheumatoid cause. Do not assign it if the left hand site is not confirmed.
Coding tip
Verify both the rheumatoid neuropathy and left-hand laterality in the provider note before assigning M05.542.