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ICD-10 Coding for Gout Arthritis(M10.00, M1A.0721)

Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Gout Arthritis. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.

Also known as:

Gouty ArthritisPodagra

Related ICD-10 Code Ranges

Complete code families applicable to Gout Arthritis

M10-M1APrimary Range

Gout

This range includes all codes related to gout, covering both acute and chronic forms, as well as specific manifestations like tophi.

Code Comparison: When to Use Each Code

Compare key differences between these codes to ensure accurate selection

CodeDescriptionWhen to UseKey Documentation
M10.00Idiopathic gout, unspecified siteUse when documentation specifies acute gout without a specific site.
  • Acute joint pain
  • Urate crystals in synovial fluid
M1A.0721Chronic tophaceous gout, left ankleUse for chronic gout with tophi, specifically affecting the left ankle.
  • Chronic joint damage
  • Visible tophi on exam or imaging

Clinical Decision Support

Always review the patient's clinical documentation thoroughly. When in doubt, choose the more specific code and ensure documentation supports it.

Key Information: ICD-10 code for gout arthritis

Essential facts and insights about Gout Arthritis

The ICD-10 code for gout arthritis includes M10.00 for idiopathic gout, unspecified site.

Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for gout arthritis

Idiopathic gout, unspecified site
Billable Code

Decision Criteria

clinical Criteria

  • Presence of acute joint pain and urate crystals in synovial fluid.

Applicable To

  • Acute gouty arthritis

Excludes

Clinical Validation Requirements

  • Acute joint pain
  • Urate crystals in synovial fluid

Code-Specific Risks

  • Risk of under-documentation if site is not specified.

Coding Notes

  • Ensure documentation specifies acute nature and confirms urate crystals.

Ancillary Codes

Additional codes that should be used in conjunction with the main diagnosis codes when applicable.

Urinary calculus

N22
Use when there is concurrent kidney stone formation due to hyperuricemia.

Differential Codes

Alternative codes to consider when ruling out similar conditions to the primary diagnosis.

Chronic gout with tophus, unspecified site

M1A.0711
Use for chronic gout with tophi present, confirmed by imaging or physical exam.

Acute idiopathic gout, right hip

M10.051
Use for acute episodes, not chronic conditions.

Documentation & Coding Risks

Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Gout Arthritis to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code M10.00.

Impact

Clinical: Leads to less precise treatment plans., Regulatory: May result in audit flags., Financial: Potential for reduced reimbursement.

Mitigation Strategy

Always specify the site and type of gout., Use imaging and lab results to confirm specifics.

Impact

Reimbursement: Incorrect coding can lead to denied claims., Compliance: Non-compliance with ICD-10 guidelines., Data Quality: Inaccurate patient records.

Mitigation Strategy

Code either acute (M10.XX) or chronic (M1A.XX), not both.

Impact

Using both acute and chronic codes for the same episode.

Mitigation Strategy

Educate coders on Excludes1 notes and proper code selection.

Documentation errors, coding pitfalls, and audit risks are interconnected aspects of medical coding and billing. Addressing all three areas helps ensure accurate coding, optimal reimbursement, and regulatory compliance.

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about ICD-10 coding for Gout Arthritis, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.

Documentation Templates for Gout Arthritis

Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Gout Arthritis. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.

Acute Gout Flare

Specialty: Rheumatology

Required Elements

  • Joint location
  • Duration of symptoms
  • Presence of tophi
  • Lab results

Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation

Poor Documentation Example
Patient has gout.
Good Documentation Example
Acute gout flare of right first MTP joint with erythema, swelling, and synovial fluid analysis positive for needle-shaped urate crystals under polarized light.
Explanation
The good example specifies the location, nature of the flare, and confirms the diagnosis with lab results.

Need help with ICD-10 coding for Gout Arthritis? Ask your questions below.

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