Other secondary chronic gout, left wrist, with tophus

This code signifies a chronic form of gout that has developed as a consequence of another underlying condition, affecting the left wrist. The presence of tophi, which are deposits of uric acid crystals, indicates advanced or long-standing disease. This diagnosis points to persistent inflammation and structural changes in the joint due to hyperuricemia.

Use this code when documentation clearly states chronic gout of the left wrist that is secondary to another condition, and specifically mentions the presence of tophi. This is appropriate for patients with a history of elevated uric acid levels and visible or palpable tophaceous deposits in the left wrist joint. Supporting documentation would include physician notes detailing the chronicity, secondary nature, specific joint involvement, and tophus formation.

• Ensure documentation specifies "secondary" gout and identifies the underlying cause if known, though the code itself does not require the underlying cause to be coded.
• Verify laterality (left wrist) and the presence of tophi, as separate codes exist for gout without tophi or affecting other joints.
• Distinguish from acute gout or primary gout; this code is specifically for chronic, secondary, tophaceous gout of the left wrist.