Wiki Osteoarthritis M15.0 vs M19.90 vs M19.91

[MeanderingMichigander]

Would someone be able to explain to me the difference between:

• M15.0 - Primary generalized osteoarthritis
• M19.90 - Unspecified osteoarthritis, unspecified site
• M19.91 - Primary osteoarthritis, unspecified site

I've seen each of these used for a patient with primary OA of multiple sites when the sites are not individually specified, but I'm having trouble determining which would be the most appropriate.

Thanks in advance!!

 

[kathrynw]

Hi,
Default in coding when no other cause is specified is to Primary osteoarthritis. Generalized or polyosteoarthritis involves multiple joints, not just bilateral joints of the same site. Usually 3+ or 5+. The physician should be queried for clarity on site and type.
Hope this helps,