Chronic gout, unspecified, with tophus (tophi)

This code signifies a persistent form of gout where the specific anatomical site or laterality is not documented, but the characteristic presence of tophi is noted. Tophi are deposits of uric acid crystals that form visible lumps, indicating advanced or poorly controlled chronic gout. This diagnosis reflects the long-term nature of the disease with a specific physical manifestation.

Use this code when the medical record clearly documents chronic gout with the presence of tophi, but the physician's documentation does not specify the affected joint or laterality. This code is appropriate when the provider explicitly states "chronic gout with tophus" without further anatomical detail. Documentation must confirm the chronicity and the existence of tophaceous deposits.

• Do not use this code if a specific anatomical site (e.g., foot, hand) or laterality (e.g., right, left) of the gout is documented; instead, choose a more specific M1A.9XX_ code.
• Ensure the documentation explicitly mentions "tophus" or "tophi" to support the 7th character "1".
• This code is for chronic gout; acute gout with tophi would be coded differently.