Lead-induced chronic gout, vertebrae, with tophus (tophi)

This code signifies chronic inflammatory arthritis caused by lead toxicity, specifically affecting the vertebral column, and characterized by the presence of urate crystal deposits (tophi). It indicates a persistent form of gout where lead exposure is identified as the underlying etiology.

Apply this code when documentation clearly states a diagnosis of chronic gout with a confirmed link to lead poisoning, and specifies involvement of the vertebrae with tophaceous deposits. Supporting documentation should include evidence of elevated lead levels, chronic gout symptoms, and imaging or pathological findings confirming vertebral tophi.

• Ensure documentation explicitly links lead exposure to the chronic gout diagnosis.
• Verify the anatomical site (vertebrae) and the presence of tophi are clearly stated.
• Do not use this code for acute lead-induced gout or chronic gout without tophi, or if the affected site is not the vertebrae.