M32: Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE)

M32 refers to Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), a group of systemic autoimmune connective tissue diseases characterized by inflammation of blood vessels, skin, muscles, and internal organs. Early diagnosis and management are crucial to prevent severe complications and organ damage.

Symptoms

• Skin rashes or ulcers – Common in SLE (M32) and dermatomyositis (M33)
• Muscle weakness – Hallmark of dermatopolymyositis (M33)
• Raynaud’s phenomenon – Finger discoloration seen in systemic sclerosis (M34)
• Vascular inflammation – Affects multiple organs in polyarteritis nodosa (M30) and necrotizing vasculopathies (M31)
• Joint pain and systemic fatigue – Found across many connective tissue diseases (M35, M36)

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) involves a combination of clinical assessment, autoantibody panels (ANA, anti-dsDNA, anti-Scl-70), muscle enzyme levels, biopsy (skin, muscle, vessel), imaging, and systemic evaluations like kidney or lung function testing.

ICD10 Code Usage

ICD10 code M32 is used by rheumatologists, immunologists, internists, and multidisciplinary specialists for clinical documentation, insurance claims for biologics or immunosuppressants, disability assessments, and treatment monitoring.

Related Codes

• M30 – Polyarteritis nodosa and related conditions
• M31 – Other necrotizing vasculopathies
• M33 – Dermatopolymyositis
• M34 – Systemic sclerosis [scleroderma]
• M35 – Other systemic involvement of connective tissue
• M36 – Systemic disorders of connective tissue in diseases classified elsewhere

FAQs

Q1: What is ICD10 code M32?
A: It refers to Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), encompassing systemic autoimmune disorders with connective tissue inflammation, multi-organ involvement, and potential severe complications.

Q2: How does systemic sclerosis (M34) differ from lupus (M32)?
A: M34 primarily affects skin thickening and fibrosis of internal organs, while M32 involves widespread inflammation affecting skin, joints, kidneys, and CNS.

Q3: What are necrotizing vasculopathies (M31)?
A: They include severe blood vessel inflammation leading to tissue ischemia, infarcts, and multiorgan damage.

Q4: How are these disorders treated?
A: Treatment often involves corticosteroids, immunosuppressants (e.g., cyclophosphamide, mycophenolate), biologics, physical therapy, and supportive care.

Q5: Who manages systemic connective tissue diseases?
A: Primarily rheumatologists, with collaboration from nephrologists, pulmonologists, dermatologists, cardiologists, and rehabilitation teams.

Conclusion

ICD10 code M32 enables precise documentation and long-term monitoring of Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), supporting multidisciplinary care strategies that improve survival rates and quality of life in complex autoimmune connective tissue diseases.