The ICD-10 code for Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) is M06.9 – Rheumatoid arthritis, unspecified.
Rheumatoid Arthritis is a chronic autoimmune disorder that primarily affects the joints, causing pain, swelling, and stiffness. The ICD-10 code helps healthcare professionals accurately record, diagnose, and manage RA for insurance claims and patient care tracking.
Common ICD-10 Codes for Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA)
Depending on the type and severity of RA, different ICD-10 codes may apply:
| Condition | ICD-10 Code | Description |
| Rheumatoid arthritis, unspecified | M06.9 | Used when the type of RA is not specified |
| Rheumatoid arthritis with rheumatoid factor, multiple sites | M05.79 | With rheumatoid factor and multiple joint involvement |
| Other specified rheumatoid arthritis | M06.89 | For RA that doesn’t fit into other categories |
| Juvenile rheumatoid arthritis | M08.0 – M08.9 | Used for RA in children |
| Rheumatoid arthritis with involvement of other organs or systems | M05.6 | Indicates systemic manifestations of RA |
Why Correct ICD-10 Coding for RA Matters
Accurate ICD-10 coding ensures:
- Proper treatment planning: Identifies the exact type of RA for personalized therapy.
- Insurance reimbursement: Prevents claim denials and billing errors.
- Data accuracy: Supports research and public health monitoring.
- Efficient communication: Helps physicians, billing specialists, and insurers align on diagnosis details.
Expert Tip:
If your documentation lacks specific details, use M06.9 for unspecified RA. However, it’s always better to code a more specific subtype when available to reflect the patient’s exact condition and improve billing accuracy.
Summary
- Primary ICD-10 Code: M06.9
- RA with Rheumatoid Factor: M05 series
- Juvenile RA: M08 series
- Always verify: Use the most specific code based on clinical notes.
In short:
The ICD-10 code for rheumatoid arthritis is M06.9, but specific subcodes (M05–M08) should be used depending on the type and presentation of RA.