Idiopathic gout, left knee

This code signifies a diagnosis of gout, a form of inflammatory arthritis caused by hyperuricemia, specifically affecting the left knee. "Idiopathic" indicates that the underlying cause of the elevated uric acid levels is unknown or primary, rather than secondary to another medical condition or medication.

Apply this code when documentation clearly states a diagnosis of idiopathic gout localized to the left knee joint. This typically occurs in patients presenting with acute, painful swelling and inflammation of the left knee, often confirmed by synovial fluid analysis showing monosodium urate crystals.

• Ensure documentation specifies "idiopathic" or "primary" gout to differentiate from secondary gout.
• Verify the laterality (left knee) is clearly documented; separate codes exist for right, bilateral, and unspecified knees.
• Do not use this code if the gout is due to a known secondary cause (e.g., drug-induced, lead poisoning); instead, use the appropriate secondary gout code.