Other secondary chronic gout, unsp shoulder, with tophus

This code signifies a chronic form of gout that is secondary to another underlying condition, affecting an unspecified shoulder joint. The presence of tophi, which are deposits of uric acid crystals, is a key diagnostic feature. This indicates long-standing, poorly controlled hyperuricemia.

Apply this code when documentation specifies chronic gout in the shoulder, explicitly stating it is secondary and accompanied by tophi. This is appropriate for patients with a history of gout and visible or palpable tophaceous deposits in the shoulder region, where the specific shoulder (left or right) is not documented.

• Ensure documentation clearly distinguishes between primary and secondary gout.
• Verify the presence of tophi is explicitly stated; do not assume based on chronicity alone.
• If the specific shoulder is documented (left or right), use the more specific code.