Idiopathic chronic gout, right elbow, without tophus (tophi)

This code signifies a persistent, long-term form of gout where the underlying cause is unknown, affecting the patient's right elbow. It specifically indicates the absence of tophi, which are deposits of uric acid crystals that can form under the skin or in joints.

Use this code when documentation clearly states a diagnosis of chronic gout, idiopathic in nature, localized to the right elbow, and explicitly notes the absence of tophaceous deposits. This applies to patients experiencing recurrent or persistent gout symptoms in this specific joint without an identifiable secondary cause.

• Ensure documentation specifies "idiopathic" and "chronic" to differentiate from acute or secondary gout.
• Verify the affected joint is the "right elbow" and that "without tophus" is explicitly stated or clearly implied.
• Do not use this code if tophi are present; a different subcategory of M1A would be appropriate.