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2025 ICD-10-CM code M85.1

Skeletal fluorosis. A bone disease caused by excessive accumulation of fluoride in the bones.

If a cause for the skeletal fluorosis can be identified, such as inhalant abuse, an external cause code should be used following M85.1.

Medical necessity is established by the correlation between the patient's symptoms, the documented excessive fluoride exposure, and the diagnostic findings confirming skeletal fluorosis. Treatment is medically necessary to manage pain, prevent further bone damage, and improve quality of life.

Diagnosis involves a clinical evaluation including medical history focusing on fluoride exposure (water, diet, occupation) and physical examination. Imaging studies (X-rays, CT scans, bone scans) are crucial, showing increased bone density, calcification of ligaments, and bone deformities. Laboratory tests may reveal elevated fluoride levels in blood and urine. Treatment focuses on removing the source of fluoride, managing pain with analgesics and physical therapy, and supportive care.

In simple words: Skeletal fluorosis is a condition where bones become hardened and less flexible due to taking in too much fluoride over a long time. This can lead to bone and joint pain, stiffness, increased risk of broken bones, and changes in bone shape.

Skeletal fluorosis is a chronic metabolic bone disease caused by excessive long-term ingestion of fluoride.The excessive fluoride is incorporated into the bone matrix, altering its structure and causing increased bone density (osteosclerosis). This leads to bones becoming brittle and less elastic, resulting in increased risk of fractures, skeletal deformities, and impaired joint mobility. Ligaments and cartilage can also ossify.Associated symptoms may include joint pain and stiffness, abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, and in severe cases, neurological complications due to spinal cord compression.

Example 1: A 50-year-old individual living in a region with high fluoride levels in the drinking water presents with chronic joint pain, stiffness, and limited mobility. Imaging reveals increased bone density and calcification of ligaments, consistent with skeletal fluorosis., A worker in an aluminum smelting plant develops bone pain and fractures after years of occupational exposure to fluoride fumes.Diagnosis of skeletal fluorosis is confirmed with imaging and lab tests., A child with a history of excessive fluoride intake through contaminated food develops skeletal deformities and delayed growth. Radiographic findings reveal osteosclerosis, confirming skeletal fluorosis.

Documentation should include evidence of excessive fluoride exposure (e.g., high fluoride levels in drinking water, occupational exposure), detailed history of symptoms, physical exam findings, imaging results (X-rays, CT scans, bone scans), and laboratory test results (fluoride levels in blood and urine).

** No specific treatment exists to reverse the effects of skeletal fluorosis. Management focuses on minimizing further fluoride exposure and alleviating symptoms.Early detection and intervention can help prevent severe complications.

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