M06.08
BillableRheumatoid arthritis without rheumatoid factor, vertebrae
HCC Category Mapping
V28HCC 93 — Rheumatoid Arthritis and Inflammatory Connective Tissue Disease
0.175V24HCC 40 — Rheumatoid Arthritis and Inflammatory Connective Tissue Disease
0.307ESRDHCC 40 — Rheumatoid Arthritis and Inflammatory Connective Tissue Disease
0.000RxHCCHCC 83 — Rheumatoid Arthritis and Inflammatory Connective Tissue Disease
0.000What This Code Means
Rheumatoid arthritis without the typical blood marker affecting the spine and vertebrae, causing inflammation in the backbone.
Coding Tips
- •Specify the region of vertebral involvement (cervical, thoracic, lumbar) in documentation when possible for clinical clarity
- •This is a less common site for seronegative rheumatoid arthritis; verify diagnosis carefully
Clinical Significance
Seronegative rheumatoid arthritis affecting the vertebrae represents a severe manifestation of RA with potential for spinal involvement and neurologic complications. This diagnosis indicates significant disease burden requiring specialized management and monitoring for axial skeletal complications.
Documentation Requirements
- ✓Confirmed diagnosis of rheumatoid arthritis by rheumatologist
- ✓Documented negative rheumatoid factor serology
- ✓Imaging evidence of vertebral involvement (MRI, CT, or X-ray)
- ✓Clinical documentation of spinal symptoms or findings
- ✓Evidence of inflammatory changes in vertebral structures
- ✓Assessment for atlantoaxial instability or other complications
- ✓Current treatment with appropriate RA medications
- ✓Neurologic examination if indicated