ICD 10 CM M12.361 | Description & Clinical Information

ICD 10 M12.361 is a diagnostic code that describes a specific medical condition characterized by sudden and recurring episodes of joint pain and swelling that affect the right knee joint, with symptoms that can last from a few hours to a few days.

Official Description Of M12.361

The ICD 10 CM book defines ICD 10 code M12.361 as:

When To Use M12.361

The diagnosis describes by ICD 10 CM M12.361 code pertains to a condition where the patient experiences sudden and recurring attacks of joint pain and swelling in the right knee joint. The symptoms disappear when the attack subsides. Providers diagnose this condition based on the patient’s explanation of their symptoms and the nature of the disease, which include redness, and swelling in the affected joints. Often, there is a temporary disability of the joint or joints that disappear as the attack subsides.

The condition is commonly known as crystal-induced arthropathy or simply arthritis. Patients with this type of arthritis experience sudden and painful attacks that can last for several days. This condition typically affects a single joint, and it is more common in people over the age of 40, although younger people can also develop the condition.

This type of arthritis occurs when crystals form in the joint, resulting in inflammation and pain. The most common type of crystal is urate, which is a waste product produced by the body when it breaks down purines. Other types of crystals that can lead to this type of arthritis include calcium pyrophosphate, calcium oxalate, and apatite.

There are different types of arthritis, but the most common type is osteoarthritis, which affects millions of people worldwide. Osteoarthritis is a chronic condition that causes the cartilage that covers the ends of the bones to wear out over time, leading to joint pain and stiffness.

Most people with crystal-induced arthropathy will experience several attacks throughout their lifetime. However, some patients may experience chronic inflammation or rheumatoid arthritis. Chronic inflammation can lead to joint deformities and significant disability.

Treatment for this condition involves managing the symptoms and preventing further attacks. Providers often prescribe non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) to reduce inflammation and pain. Other medications, such as colchicine or corticosteroids, may also be prescribed to manage the symptoms.

Preventing attacks of crystal-induced arthropathy involves making healthy lifestyle choices. For instance, patients should maintain a healthy weight, avoid excessive consumption of alcohol, and limit their intake of purine-rich foods. They should also stay hydrated and avoid becoming dehydrated, which can lead to an increased risk of attacks.

In conclusion, crystal-induced arthropathy, which correlates with the ICD 10 CM M12.361 code, is a condition where patients experience sudden and recurring attacks of joint pain and swelling. Treatment focuses on managing symptoms and preventing further attacks. Patients with this condition can take steps to prevent further attacks by making healthy lifestyle choices.