ICD-10: M70.40

Prepatellar bursitis, often referred to as "housemaid's knee," is a condition characterized by inflammation of the bursa located in front of the kneecap (patella). This condition can arise from various causes, including repetitive kneeling, trauma, or infection. Understanding the clinical presentation, signs, symptoms, and patient characteristics associated with this condition is crucial for accurate diagnosis and management.

Clinical Presentation

Signs and Symptoms

Patients with prepatellar bursitis typically present with the following signs and symptoms:

• Swelling: The most prominent feature is swelling over the kneecap, which may be localized or diffuse. This swelling is due to the accumulation of fluid in the bursa.
• Pain: Patients often report pain in the front of the knee, which may worsen with movement or pressure on the knee. The pain can be sharp or dull and may radiate to surrounding areas.
• Tenderness: The area over the bursa is usually tender to touch, and patients may flinch when pressure is applied.
• Limited Range of Motion: In some cases, the swelling and pain can lead to a reduced range of motion in the knee, making activities such as squatting or kneeling difficult.
• Warmth and Redness: In cases where bursitis is due to infection (septic bursitis), the skin over the bursa may appear red and feel warm to the touch.

Patient Characteristics

Certain patient characteristics may predispose individuals to develop prepatellar bursitis:

• Occupation: Individuals whose jobs require frequent kneeling or crawling, such as construction workers, carpet layers, or gardeners, are at higher risk.
• Age: While prepatellar bursitis can occur at any age, it is more common in middle-aged adults.
• Gender: There is no significant gender predisposition, but certain occupations may lead to higher incidence in males.
• Previous Knee Injuries: A history of knee trauma or previous knee surgeries can increase the likelihood of developing bursitis.
• Comorbid Conditions: Conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis or gout may also contribute to the development of bursitis due to increased inflammation in the joints.

Diagnosis

The diagnosis of prepatellar bursitis is primarily clinical, based on the history and physical examination. Imaging studies, such as ultrasound or MRI, may be utilized to assess the extent of the inflammation and to rule out other conditions, such as tears or fractures.

Conclusion

Prepatellar bursitis (ICD-10 code M70.40) is characterized by swelling, pain, and tenderness in the knee, particularly in individuals with occupations that involve repetitive kneeling. Understanding the clinical presentation and patient characteristics is essential for effective diagnosis and management. Early intervention can help alleviate symptoms and prevent chronic issues related to this condition. If you suspect prepatellar bursitis, consulting a healthcare professional for a thorough evaluation and appropriate treatment is recommended.

Prepatellar bursitis, classified under ICD-10 code M70.40, refers to inflammation of the bursa located in front of the kneecap (patella). This condition is often associated with repetitive trauma or prolonged pressure on the knee, commonly seen in individuals whose occupations or activities involve frequent kneeling, such as construction workers or gardeners.

Clinical Description

Definition

Prepatellar bursitis is characterized by the inflammation of the prepatellar bursa, a small fluid-filled sac that acts as a cushion between the kneecap and the skin. When this bursa becomes inflamed, it can lead to pain, swelling, and limited mobility in the affected knee.

Symptoms

Patients with prepatellar bursitis typically present with the following symptoms:
- Swelling: A noticeable swelling at the front of the knee, often described as a "water on the knee" appearance.
- Pain: Localized pain that may worsen with movement or pressure on the knee.
- Tenderness: Increased sensitivity in the area surrounding the bursa.
- Limited Range of Motion: Difficulty bending or straightening the knee fully due to discomfort.

Causes

The primary causes of prepatellar bursitis include:
- Repetitive Trauma: Activities that involve frequent kneeling or crawling can irritate the bursa.
- Injury: Direct trauma to the knee, such as a fall or blow, can lead to bursitis.
- Infection: Although less common, an infection in the bursa can cause inflammation and is referred to as septic bursitis.

Risk Factors

Certain factors may increase the likelihood of developing prepatellar bursitis:
- Occupation: Jobs that require prolonged kneeling or crawling.
- Sports: Activities that involve frequent kneeling, such as wrestling or football.
- Pre-existing Conditions: Individuals with conditions like arthritis or gout may be more susceptible.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of prepatellar bursitis typically involves:
- Physical Examination: A healthcare provider will assess the knee for swelling, tenderness, and range of motion.
- Medical History: Discussion of symptoms, activities, and any previous knee injuries.
- Imaging Tests: In some cases, ultrasound or MRI may be used to evaluate the extent of inflammation or rule out other conditions.

Treatment

Treatment options for prepatellar bursitis may include:
- Rest: Avoiding activities that exacerbate symptoms.
- Ice Therapy: Applying ice packs to reduce swelling and pain.
- Medications: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can help alleviate pain and inflammation.
- Physical Therapy: Strengthening and stretching exercises may be recommended to improve knee function.
- Corticosteroid Injections: In cases of severe inflammation, injections may be used to provide relief.

Conclusion

ICD-10 code M70.40 for prepatellar bursitis, unspecified knee, encapsulates a common condition that can significantly impact an individual's quality of life, particularly for those engaged in activities that place stress on the knee. Early diagnosis and appropriate management are crucial to prevent chronic issues and facilitate recovery. If symptoms persist or worsen, it is advisable to seek further medical evaluation to explore additional treatment options.

Prepatellar bursitis, classified under ICD-10 code M70.40, refers to inflammation of the bursa located in front of the kneecap (patella). This condition is commonly associated with repetitive kneeling or trauma to the knee. Understanding alternative names and related terms can help in better communication and documentation in clinical settings.

Alternative Names for Prepatellar Bursitis

1. Housemaid's Knee: This colloquial term is often used to describe prepatellar bursitis, particularly in individuals whose occupations involve frequent kneeling, such as housemaids or carpet layers.

2. Patellar Bursitis: While this term may sometimes be used interchangeably, it is important to note that it can refer to inflammation of the bursa around the patella more generally, not specifically the prepatellar bursa.

3. Kneecap Bursitis: This term emphasizes the location of the bursitis, indicating that it affects the area around the kneecap.

4. Anterior Knee Bursitis: This term describes the location of the bursitis as being at the front (anterior) of the knee.

Related Terms and Conditions

1. Bursitis: A general term for inflammation of a bursa, which can occur in various locations throughout the body, not just the knee.

2. Knee Pain: While not specific to bursitis, knee pain is a common symptom associated with this condition and can be used in broader discussions about knee-related issues.

3. Knee Inflammation: This term encompasses various inflammatory conditions affecting the knee, including bursitis, tendinitis, and arthritis.

4. Soft Tissue Disorders: Prepatellar bursitis falls under the broader category of soft tissue disorders, which includes various conditions affecting muscles, tendons, and bursae.

5. M70.41: This is the specific ICD-10 code for prepatellar bursitis of the right knee, while M70.42 refers to the left knee. These codes are useful for more precise documentation in clinical settings.

Conclusion

Understanding the alternative names and related terms for ICD-10 code M70.40 can enhance clarity in medical documentation and communication. Recognizing these terms is particularly beneficial for healthcare professionals when diagnosing and treating patients with knee-related issues. If you need further information on treatment options or management strategies for prepatellar bursitis, feel free to ask!

Prepatellar bursitis, classified under ICD-10 code M70.40, refers to inflammation of the bursa located in front of the kneecap (patella). This condition is often associated with repetitive trauma or prolonged pressure on the knee, commonly seen in individuals engaged in activities that require frequent kneeling, such as construction work or gardening. The diagnosis of prepatellar bursitis involves several criteria, which can be summarized as follows:

Clinical Presentation

Symptoms

• Pain and Tenderness: Patients typically report localized pain at the front of the knee, which may worsen with movement or pressure.
• Swelling: There may be noticeable swelling over the kneecap due to fluid accumulation in the bursa.
• Limited Range of Motion: Patients might experience difficulty in fully bending or straightening the knee due to pain or swelling.

Physical Examination

• Palpation: A healthcare provider will palpate the area around the knee to assess for tenderness, warmth, and swelling.
• Range of Motion Tests: The clinician may evaluate the knee's range of motion to determine any restrictions caused by pain or swelling.

Diagnostic Imaging

X-rays

• While X-rays do not directly show bursitis, they can help rule out other conditions such as fractures or arthritis that may present with similar symptoms.

Ultrasound or MRI

• These imaging modalities can be utilized to visualize the bursa and confirm the presence of inflammation or fluid accumulation, providing a clearer picture of the condition.

Exclusion of Other Conditions

• It is crucial to differentiate prepatellar bursitis from other knee conditions, such as:
• Patellar Tendonitis: Inflammation of the tendon connecting the kneecap to the shinbone.
• Osteoarthritis: Degenerative joint disease that can cause knee pain and swelling.
• Infections: Septic bursitis must be ruled out, especially if there are signs of systemic infection (fever, chills).

Patient History

• A thorough patient history is essential, including:
• Activity Level: Inquiry about occupations or hobbies that involve kneeling or repetitive knee movements.
• Duration of Symptoms: Understanding how long the symptoms have been present can help in assessing the severity and potential causes.

Conclusion

The diagnosis of prepatellar bursitis (ICD-10 code M70.40) is primarily clinical, based on the patient's symptoms, physical examination findings, and the exclusion of other knee pathologies. Imaging studies may be employed to confirm the diagnosis and assess the extent of inflammation. Proper diagnosis is crucial for effective management and treatment of the condition, which may include rest, ice, compression, elevation (RICE), and possibly corticosteroid injections or physical therapy for more severe cases.

Prepatellar bursitis, often referred to as "housemaid's knee," is an inflammation of the bursa located in front of the kneecap (patella). This condition can arise from repetitive kneeling, trauma, or prolonged pressure on the knee. The ICD-10 code M70.40 specifically denotes prepatellar bursitis that is unspecified, indicating that the diagnosis does not specify the cause or severity of the condition.

Standard Treatment Approaches

1. Initial Conservative Management

• Rest: The first step in managing prepatellar bursitis is to reduce activities that exacerbate the condition. This may involve taking breaks from kneeling or other knee-intensive activities.
• Ice Therapy: Applying ice packs to the affected area for 15-20 minutes several times a day can help reduce swelling and alleviate pain.
• Compression: Using a knee brace or wrap can provide support and help minimize swelling.
• Elevation: Keeping the knee elevated can also assist in reducing swelling.

2. Medications

• Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs): Over-the-counter medications such as ibuprofen or naproxen can help relieve pain and reduce inflammation.
• Corticosteroid Injections: In cases where pain persists despite conservative treatment, a healthcare provider may recommend corticosteroid injections directly into the bursa to reduce inflammation.

3. Physical Therapy

• Rehabilitation Exercises: A physical therapist can design a program that includes stretching and strengthening exercises to improve knee function and prevent recurrence.
• Ultrasound Therapy: This modality may be used to promote healing and reduce inflammation in the affected area.

4. Activity Modification

• Ergonomic Adjustments: For individuals whose work involves frequent kneeling, using kneepads or modifying workstations can help prevent further irritation of the bursa.
• Gradual Return to Activities: Once symptoms improve, a gradual return to normal activities is recommended, ensuring that the knee is not subjected to excessive strain.

5. Surgical Intervention

• Bursectomy: In chronic cases where conservative treatments fail, surgical removal of the bursa (bursectomy) may be considered. This is typically a last resort and is reserved for severe cases.

Conclusion

The management of prepatellar bursitis (ICD-10 code M70.40) primarily focuses on conservative treatment methods, including rest, ice application, and medication. Physical therapy plays a crucial role in rehabilitation, while surgical options are available for persistent cases. Early intervention and lifestyle modifications can significantly improve outcomes and prevent recurrence. If symptoms persist or worsen, it is essential to consult a healthcare professional for further evaluation and tailored treatment options.