Idiopathic chronic gout, left hand, without tophus (tophi)

This code signifies a persistent, long-term form of gout affecting the left hand, where the underlying cause is unknown (idiopathic). It specifically indicates the absence of tophi, which are characteristic urate crystal deposits that can form under the skin or in joints in advanced gout. The condition is characterized by recurrent episodes of acute inflammatory arthritis in the left hand.

Apply this code when documentation confirms a diagnosis of chronic gout in the left hand, with no identified secondary cause (e.g., medication-induced, renal disease). The patient's medical record must explicitly state the absence of tophaceous deposits and specify the left hand as the affected site. This code is appropriate for ongoing management of chronic gout flares or persistent symptoms in this location.

• Ensure documentation clearly distinguishes between acute and chronic gout; this code is for chronic presentations.
• Verify the laterality (left hand) and the absence of tophi are explicitly stated by the provider.
• Do not use this code if the gout is secondary to another condition; instead, code the underlying cause and the appropriate secondary gout code.