ICD-10: M71.149

ICD-10 code M71.149 refers to "Other infective bursitis, unspecified hand." This condition involves inflammation of the bursa, a small fluid-filled sac that acts as a cushion between bones and soft tissues, specifically in the hand. Understanding the clinical presentation, signs, symptoms, and patient characteristics associated with this diagnosis is crucial for effective management and treatment.

Clinical Presentation

Definition and Overview

Infective bursitis occurs when a bursa becomes inflamed due to infection, often resulting from bacterial invasion. The condition can affect various bursae in the body, but in this case, it specifically pertains to the bursae in the hand. The inflammation can lead to pain, swelling, and restricted movement in the affected area.

Common Causes

• Bacterial Infection: The most common cause of infective bursitis is a bacterial infection, often due to Staphylococcus aureus or Streptococcus species.
• Trauma or Injury: Previous trauma to the hand can predispose individuals to bursitis.
• Underlying Conditions: Conditions such as diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, or immunosuppression can increase susceptibility to infections.

Signs and Symptoms

Localized Symptoms

• Pain: Patients typically experience localized pain in the hand, which may worsen with movement or pressure.
• Swelling: There is often noticeable swelling over the affected bursa, which may feel warm to the touch.
• Redness: The skin over the inflamed bursa may appear red and inflamed.
• Limited Range of Motion: Patients may have difficulty moving the affected fingers or hand due to pain and swelling.

Systemic Symptoms

In some cases, systemic symptoms may also be present, particularly if the infection is severe:
- Fever: Patients may develop a fever as the body responds to the infection.
- Chills: Accompanying chills may occur, indicating a systemic response to infection.
- Fatigue: General feelings of malaise or fatigue can be common.

Patient Characteristics

Demographics

• Age: While bursitis can occur at any age, it is more common in adults, particularly those over 40 years old.
• Gender: There may be a slight male predominance, especially in cases related to occupational or sports-related injuries.

Risk Factors

• Occupational Hazards: Individuals engaged in repetitive hand movements or heavy lifting may be at higher risk.
• Pre-existing Conditions: Patients with diabetes, obesity, or autoimmune diseases are more susceptible to infections, including bursitis.
• Immunocompromised Status: Those with weakened immune systems due to medications or conditions are at increased risk for developing infective bursitis.

Conclusion

Infective bursitis of the hand, coded as M71.149, presents with specific clinical signs and symptoms, including localized pain, swelling, and potential systemic effects like fever. Understanding the patient characteristics and risk factors is essential for healthcare providers to diagnose and manage this condition effectively. Early intervention can help prevent complications and promote recovery, emphasizing the importance of recognizing the signs of infection promptly.

ICD-10 code M71.149 refers to "Other infective bursitis, unspecified hand." This code is part of the broader category of bursopathies, which are conditions affecting the bursae—small fluid-filled sacs that cushion bones, tendons, and muscles near joints. Below are alternative names and related terms associated with this specific ICD-10 code.

Alternative Names for M71.149

1. Infective Bursitis: This term broadly describes inflammation of a bursa due to infection, which can occur in various locations, including the hand.
2. Bursitis of the Hand: A general term that may refer to any inflammation of the bursae in the hand, including infective causes.
3. Septic Bursitis: This term emphasizes the infectious nature of the bursitis, indicating that the inflammation is due to bacterial or other microbial infection.
4. Non-specific Bursitis: This term can be used when the exact cause of the bursitis is not identified, which aligns with the "unspecified" aspect of M71.149.

Related Terms

1. Bursopathy: A general term for any disease or condition affecting the bursae, which includes various types of bursitis.
2. Bursa: The anatomical structure involved in bursitis; understanding this term is crucial for discussing bursitis-related conditions.
3. Hand Infections: While not specific to bursitis, this term encompasses infections that can lead to bursitis in the hand.
4. Inflammatory Conditions of the Hand: This broader category includes various inflammatory diseases, including bursitis, tendinitis, and arthritis.

Clinical Context

In clinical practice, M71.149 may be used when diagnosing patients with bursitis in the hand where the specific infective agent is not identified. It is essential for healthcare providers to consider the patient's history, symptoms, and potential exposure to infectious agents when diagnosing and treating this condition.

Conclusion

Understanding the alternative names and related terms for ICD-10 code M71.149 is crucial for accurate diagnosis, treatment, and communication among healthcare professionals. This knowledge aids in ensuring that patients receive appropriate care for their specific conditions related to bursitis in the hand.

The ICD-10 code M71.149 refers to "Other infective bursitis, unspecified hand." To diagnose this condition, healthcare providers typically follow a set of criteria that includes clinical evaluation, patient history, and diagnostic imaging. Below are the key components involved in the diagnosis of this specific condition:

Clinical Evaluation

1. Symptoms Assessment:
   - Patients often present with localized pain, swelling, and tenderness in the hand, particularly around the joints where bursae are located.
   - Symptoms may also include warmth and redness over the affected area, which can indicate inflammation or infection.

2. Physical Examination:
   - A thorough physical examination is conducted to assess the range of motion in the hand and to identify any signs of swelling or tenderness in specific areas.
   - The healthcare provider may palpate the bursae to determine if there is fluid accumulation or signs of infection.

Patient History

1. Medical History:
   - The clinician will inquire about the patient's medical history, including any previous episodes of bursitis, underlying health conditions (such as diabetes or autoimmune disorders), and recent injuries or infections.
   - A history of repetitive hand movements or occupations that may predispose the patient to bursitis is also relevant.

2. Recent Infections:
   - The presence of recent infections, particularly skin infections or systemic infections, can be significant in diagnosing infective bursitis.

Diagnostic Imaging

1. Ultrasound:
   - An ultrasound may be performed to visualize the bursae and assess for fluid accumulation, which can help differentiate between infective and non-infective bursitis.
   - This imaging technique can also help identify any structural abnormalities in the surrounding tissues.

2. MRI or X-rays:
   - In some cases, MRI may be used to provide a more detailed view of the soft tissues and to rule out other conditions that may mimic bursitis.
   - X-rays can help exclude fractures or other bone-related issues.

Laboratory Tests

1. Fluid Analysis:
   - If there is significant swelling, aspiration of the bursa may be performed to obtain synovial fluid for analysis. This can help identify the presence of infection (e.g., bacteria, crystals) or other inflammatory markers.
   - Cultures of the aspirated fluid can confirm the presence of infectious agents.

2. Blood Tests:
   - Blood tests may be conducted to check for signs of infection, such as elevated white blood cell counts or inflammatory markers (e.g., C-reactive protein).

Conclusion

The diagnosis of M71.149, "Other infective bursitis, unspecified hand," involves a comprehensive approach that includes clinical evaluation, patient history, diagnostic imaging, and laboratory tests. By systematically assessing these factors, healthcare providers can accurately diagnose the condition and determine the appropriate treatment plan. If you have further questions or need more specific information, feel free to ask!

When addressing the standard treatment approaches for ICD-10 code M71.149, which refers to "Other infective bursitis, unspecified hand," it is essential to understand both the condition itself and the typical management strategies employed in clinical practice.

Understanding Infective Bursitis

Bursitis is the inflammation of a bursa, a small fluid-filled sac that acts as a cushion between bones and soft tissues, such as muscles, tendons, and skin. Infective bursitis occurs when a bursa becomes infected, often due to bacteria, leading to pain, swelling, and limited movement in the affected area. In the case of M71.149, the condition specifically affects the bursae in the hand, but the exact bursa involved is unspecified.

Standard Treatment Approaches

1. Initial Assessment and Diagnosis

• Clinical Evaluation: A thorough history and physical examination are crucial. Symptoms such as localized pain, swelling, warmth, and redness should be assessed.
• Imaging Studies: X-rays may be performed to rule out fractures or other bone-related issues. Ultrasound or MRI can help visualize the bursa and assess the extent of inflammation or infection.

2. Antibiotic Therapy

• Empirical Antibiotics: If an infection is suspected, broad-spectrum antibiotics are typically initiated. The choice of antibiotic may be adjusted based on culture results if a specific pathogen is identified.
• Duration of Treatment: Antibiotic therapy usually lasts for 7 to 14 days, depending on the severity of the infection and the patient's response to treatment[1].

3. Pain Management

• NSAIDs: Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen or naproxen are commonly used to reduce pain and inflammation.
• Corticosteroids: In some cases, corticosteroid injections may be administered to alleviate severe inflammation and pain.

4. Drainage Procedures

• Aspiration: If there is significant fluid accumulation in the bursa, aspiration may be performed to relieve pressure and obtain fluid for analysis. This can also help reduce pain and swelling.
• Surgical Intervention: In cases where the infection does not respond to conservative treatment or if there is an abscess formation, surgical drainage may be necessary.

5. Rehabilitation and Physical Therapy

• Rest and Immobilization: Initially, the affected hand may need to be rested and immobilized to prevent further irritation.
• Physical Therapy: Once the acute phase has resolved, physical therapy may be recommended to restore range of motion and strength in the hand.

6. Follow-Up Care

• Monitoring: Regular follow-up appointments are essential to monitor the resolution of the infection and assess for any complications.
• Adjustments in Treatment: Based on the patient's progress, treatment plans may be adjusted, including the potential need for prolonged antibiotic therapy or further interventions.

Conclusion

The management of infective bursitis, particularly in the hand as indicated by ICD-10 code M71.149, involves a comprehensive approach that includes diagnosis, antibiotic therapy, pain management, possible drainage procedures, and rehabilitation. Early intervention is crucial to prevent complications and ensure a favorable outcome. If symptoms persist or worsen despite treatment, further evaluation may be necessary to rule out other underlying conditions or complications[1].

For optimal care, it is always recommended that patients consult with a healthcare professional for personalized treatment plans tailored to their specific needs.

ICD-10 code M71.149 refers to "Other infective bursitis, unspecified hand." This code is part of the broader category of bursopathies, which are conditions affecting the bursae—small, fluid-filled sacs that cushion bones, tendons, and muscles near joints. Here’s a detailed overview of this diagnosis code, including its clinical description, potential causes, symptoms, and treatment options.

Clinical Description

Definition

Infective bursitis is an inflammation of a bursa caused by an infection. The bursa serves to reduce friction between tissues in the body, and when it becomes infected, it can lead to pain, swelling, and limited movement in the affected area. The designation "unspecified hand" indicates that the specific location of the bursitis within the hand is not detailed, which can encompass various bursae in the hand region.

Etiology

Infective bursitis can arise from several factors, including:
- Bacterial Infection: The most common cause, often resulting from skin infections that spread to the bursa.
- Trauma: Injury to the hand can predispose the bursa to infection.
- Underlying Conditions: Conditions such as diabetes or rheumatoid arthritis can increase susceptibility to infections.

Symptoms

Patients with M71.149 may experience a range of symptoms, including:
- Localized Pain: Pain in the hand that may worsen with movement.
- Swelling: Noticeable swelling around the affected bursa.
- Redness and Warmth: The skin over the bursa may appear red and feel warm to the touch.
- Limited Range of Motion: Difficulty in moving the hand or fingers due to pain and swelling.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis typically involves:
- Clinical Examination: A healthcare provider will assess symptoms and perform a physical examination.
- Imaging Studies: X-rays or ultrasound may be used to rule out other conditions and visualize the bursa.
- Aspiration: In some cases, fluid may be drawn from the bursa for analysis to identify the causative organism.

Treatment

Treatment for infective bursitis generally includes:
- Antibiotics: If a bacterial infection is confirmed, appropriate antibiotics will be prescribed.
- Rest and Immobilization: Keeping the hand immobilized can help reduce inflammation and pain.
- Ice Therapy: Applying ice packs can alleviate swelling and discomfort.
- Surgical Intervention: In severe cases, surgical drainage of the bursa may be necessary.

Conclusion

ICD-10 code M71.149 captures the clinical essence of other infective bursitis in the unspecified hand, highlighting the importance of prompt diagnosis and treatment to prevent complications. Understanding the underlying causes and symptoms is crucial for effective management, ensuring that patients receive appropriate care tailored to their specific condition. If you suspect infective bursitis, consulting a healthcare professional for a thorough evaluation is essential.