Lead-induced chronic gout, unsp ankle and foot, with tophus

This code signifies a chronic inflammatory arthritis caused by elevated lead levels, specifically affecting an unidentifiable ankle or foot joint. The condition is characterized by the presence of tophi, which are deposits of uric acid crystals.

Apply this code when documentation clearly indicates chronic gout attributed to lead exposure, with evidence of tophaceous deposits in an unspecified ankle or foot. This diagnosis requires a confirmed history of lead toxicity alongside the clinical presentation of gout.

• Ensure documentation specifies "chronic" gout and a direct link to "lead-induced" etiology.
• Verify the presence of "tophus" (tophi) in the medical record.
• Avoid using this code if the specific ankle or foot is identified; instead, use a more specific M1A.17- subcategory.