Idiopathic chronic gout, left ankle and foot, without tophus

This code signifies a persistent, long-term form of gout where the underlying cause is unknown, affecting the left ankle and foot. It specifically indicates the absence of visible or palpable urate crystal deposits (tophi) in the affected joint.

Use this code when documentation clearly states a diagnosis of chronic gout in the left ankle and/or foot, with no identifiable secondary cause (e.g., medication-induced, renal impairment). The absence of tophi must also be explicitly documented or clearly implied by the lack of mention of tophaceous deposits.

• Ensure the laterality (left) is clearly documented for both ankle and foot involvement.
• Distinguish from acute gout (M10.-) or gout with tophi (M1A.1-).
• Always review the medical record for any mention of tophi; if present, a different code from the M1A.1- subcategory would be appropriate.