Idiopathic chronic gout, multiple sites, without tophus

This code signifies a persistent, long-term form of gout where the underlying cause is unknown, affecting multiple joints throughout the body. It specifically indicates the absence of tophi, which are characteristic urate crystal deposits that can form in chronic gout. The condition is characterized by recurrent episodes of inflammatory arthritis.

Use this code when documentation clearly states a diagnosis of chronic idiopathic gout involving more than one joint, and there is no mention of tophaceous deposits. This code is appropriate for ongoing management of chronic gout without tophi, even during periods of remission. Supporting documentation should include physician notes detailing the chronicity, idiopathic nature, and affected sites.

• Ensure documentation specifies "idiopathic" and "chronic" gout; otherwise, a different code for acute or unspecified gout may be more appropriate.
• Verify the absence of tophi; if tophi are present, a code from M1A.1- (idiopathic chronic tophaceous gout) should be selected.
• This code requires a 7th character for laterality and an 8th character for encounter type, which is represented by the 'X0' in the provided code.