Chronic gout due to renal impairment, left elbow, w tophus

This code signifies chronic gout that has developed as a consequence of impaired kidney function, specifically affecting the left elbow joint. The presence of tophi, which are deposits of uric acid crystals, further characterizes this chronic inflammatory arthropathy.

Apply this code when documentation clearly indicates a patient has chronic gout, the etiology is attributed to renal impairment, and the left elbow is the affected joint. The medical record must also specify the presence of tophaceous deposits.

• Ensure documentation explicitly links the gout to renal impairment; otherwise, a different etiology code may be more appropriate.
• Verify the laterality (left elbow) and the presence of tophi are clearly stated in the physician's notes.
• Do not use this code for acute gout or gout without documented tophi, even if due to renal impairment.