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

This code signifies a chronic inflammatory arthritis affecting the left hip joint, caused by the deposition of uric acid crystals, but without the presence of visible or palpable tophi (nodular urate deposits). The condition is considered idiopathic, meaning the underlying cause is unknown.

Apply this code when documentation clearly indicates a diagnosis of chronic gout specifically affecting the left hip, and the provider explicitly states the absence of tophi. This is appropriate for patients experiencing persistent pain, swelling, or stiffness in the left hip due to gout, where the etiology is not secondary to another condition.

• Ensure the documentation specifies "idiopathic" and "chronic" gout.
• Verify the affected joint is the "left hip" and that "without tophus" is clearly stated.
• Do not use this code if tophi are present; a different subcategory of M1A would be appropriate.