Lead-induced chronic gout, right ankle and foot, w/o tophus

This code signifies a chronic inflammatory arthritis caused by elevated lead levels, specifically affecting the right ankle and foot. The absence of tophi indicates that there are no visible or palpable urate crystal deposits in the affected joint. This condition is characterized by recurrent episodes of severe pain, swelling, and redness.

Use this code when documentation explicitly states a diagnosis of chronic gout attributed to lead exposure, localized to the right ankle and foot. The medical record must confirm the absence of tophaceous deposits. This code is appropriate for ongoing management of lead-induced gout in this specific anatomical location.

• Ensure documentation clearly links the gout to lead exposure and specifies chronicity.
• Verify the affected joint is the right ankle and foot and that tophi are absent.
• Do not use this code if tophi are present; a different subcategory of M1A.17 will be required.