Idiopathic gout, left shoulder

This code signifies a diagnosis of gout, a form of inflammatory arthritis caused by hyperuricemia, affecting the left shoulder joint without an identifiable secondary cause. It indicates the presence of urate crystal deposition leading to acute or chronic inflammation in this specific anatomical location.

Apply this code when documentation clearly states a diagnosis of idiopathic (primary) gout localized to the left shoulder. This code is appropriate when the provider has ruled out other causes of gout, such as drug-induced or secondary to another medical condition.

• Ensure documentation specifies "idiopathic" or "primary" gout and clearly identifies the left shoulder as the affected joint.
• Do not use this code if the gout is due to a secondary cause (e.g., drug-induced, lead poisoning); instead, refer to codes in the M10.1-M10.4 series.
• Consider sequencing this code after a code for acute gout flare (e.g., M1A.0XX) if the patient is experiencing an acute exacerbation.