Idiopathic chronic gout, unspecified wrist, with tophus

This code signifies a persistent form of gout where the underlying cause is unknown, affecting an unspecified wrist joint, and characterized by the presence of tophi. Tophi are deposits of uric acid crystals that form visible lumps under the skin, often around joints. This condition indicates chronic inflammation and crystal deposition in the wrist without an identifiable secondary cause.

Use this code when documentation clearly states a diagnosis of chronic gout affecting the wrist, explicitly identified as idiopathic, and notes the presence of tophaceous deposits. This applies to patients experiencing long-term symptoms and signs of gout in the wrist, with confirmed tophi, and no other contributing factors like medication or other diseases are identified as the cause.

• Ensure documentation specifies "idiopathic" and "chronic" gout, as well as the presence of "tophus" or "tophi."
• Do not use this code if the gout is acute, secondary, or if tophi are not documented.
• Verify the affected joint is the wrist; if another joint is involved, a more specific code should be selected.