Gonococcal infection of lower genitourinary tract, unspecified
ICD-10 A53.0 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of gonococcal infection of lower genitourinary tract, unspecified.
Gonococcal infection of the lower genitourinary tract is primarily caused by the bacterium Neisseria gonorrhoeae, a sexually transmitted infection (STI) that affects both men and women. In men, it typically manifests as urethritis, characterized by dysuria, purulent discharge, and sometimes epididymitis. In women, it can lead to cervicitis, which may present with vaginal discharge, pelvic pain, and can progress to more severe complications such as pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) if left untreated. The infection is often asymptomatic, particularly in women, which complicates diagnosis and increases the risk of transmission. Gonococcal infections can also lead to systemic complications, including disseminated gonococcal infection (DGI), which can affect joints and skin. Effective treatment typically involves antibiotics, with dual therapy recommended to combat potential antibiotic resistance. Regular screening and prompt treatment are crucial for controlling the spread of gonorrhea, especially in high-risk populations. Contact tracing is essential to identify and treat sexual partners to prevent reinfection and further transmission.
Detailed patient history, including sexual history and previous STI infections.
Diagnosis and management of gonococcal infections, treatment of co-infections.
Consideration of antibiotic resistance patterns and local epidemiology.
Documentation of urinary symptoms, physical examination findings, and treatment plans.
Management of urethritis and complications such as epididymitis.
Need for differentiation from other causes of urethritis.
Used when testing for gonorrhea in symptomatic patients.
Document the reason for testing and any symptoms present.
Infectious disease specialists should ensure comprehensive STI screening.
Common symptoms include dysuria, purulent discharge, and pelvic pain. However, many individuals may be asymptomatic, particularly women.
Diagnosis is typically made through laboratory testing, including nucleic acid amplification tests (NAATs) or cultures from the infected site.
The CDC recommends dual therapy with ceftriaxone and azithromycin to effectively treat gonococcal infections and combat antibiotic resistance.
