ICD-10 Code M06.0 – Rheumatoid arthritis without rheumatoid factor (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code M06.0 – Rheumatoid arthritis without rheumatoid factor
What it is
M06.0 identifies rheumatoid arthritis when rheumatoid factor is not present in the record. Use it for inflammatory joint disease documented as seronegative rheumatoid arthritis or rheumatoid arthritis without rheumatoid factor.
Clinical signs
Typical findings include persistent joint pain, swelling, stiffness, and symmetric small-joint involvement. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation, especially when the chart notes inflammatory arthritis without rheumatoid factor.
When to use this code
Use M06.0 when the provider clearly documents rheumatoid arthritis without rheumatoid factor, seronegative rheumatoid arthritis, or an equivalent diagnosis. This code fits confirmed RA cases where rheumatoid factor is absent or specifically negative in the chart. Check documentation if the note only says inflammatory arthritis.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for rheumatoid arthritis with rheumatoid factor, juvenile arthritis, or unspecified arthritis. If the diagnosis is unclear or the record does not support RA, check documentation.
Coding tip
Match the code to the provider’s exact wording, and verify that rheumatoid factor is documented as absent or negative before assigning M06.0.