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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesA54.2

A54.2

Gonococcal infection of lower genitourinary tract, unspecified

BILLABLE STATUSYes
IMPLEMENTATION DATEOctober 1, 2015
LAST UPDATED09/05/2025

Code Description

ICD-10 A54.2 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of gonococcal infection of lower genitourinary tract, unspecified.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Gonococcal infection of the lower genitourinary tract is caused by the bacterium Neisseria gonorrhoeae, a sexually transmitted infection (STI) that primarily affects the urethra in men and the cervix in women. Symptoms may include dysuria, increased urinary frequency, and purulent discharge. In women, it can lead to pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) if left untreated. The infection is often asymptomatic, particularly in women, which can lead to delayed diagnosis and treatment. Gonococcal infections can also be transmitted to newborns during childbirth, leading to conjunctivitis. Diagnosis is typically made through nucleic acid amplification tests (NAATs) or culture methods. Treatment usually involves dual therapy with antibiotics, such as ceftriaxone and azithromycin, to combat potential antibiotic resistance. Contact tracing is crucial to prevent further transmission, as partners of infected individuals should be notified and tested. Regular screening is recommended for sexually active individuals, particularly those with multiple partners or those in high-risk groups.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Asymptomatic cases complicate diagnosis and coding.
  • Variability in clinical presentation among different populations.
  • Need for accurate documentation of sexual history.
  • Potential for co-infection with other STIs.

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of symptoms.
  • Failure to document sexual history.
  • Lack of follow-up care documentation.
  • Inconsistent coding of co-infections.

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Infectious Disease

Documentation Requirements

Detailed patient history, including sexual history and symptoms.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Diagnosis and management of STIs, treatment of gonococcal infections.

Billing Considerations

Consideration of antibiotic resistance patterns in treatment.

Obstetrics/Gynecology

Documentation Requirements

Documentation of pelvic exams, symptoms, and treatment plans.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Screening and treatment of gonorrhea in pregnant women.

Billing Considerations

Importance of screening during pregnancy to prevent neonatal transmission.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use A54.2 When
  • Follow the official ICD
  • CM coding guidelines, ensuring that the code is used when the infection is confirmed and documented

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use A54.2 When
  • Exclude codes for other specified gonococcal infections unless they are also present

Related CPT Codes

87491CPT Code

Nucleic acid amplification test for gonorrhea

Clinical Scenario

Used for diagnosing gonococcal infections in symptomatic patients.

Documentation Requirements

Document the reason for testing and patient symptoms.

Specialty Considerations

Infectious disease specialists may require additional lab results.

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of gonococcal infections, improving data accuracy and treatment tracking. It emphasizes the importance of detailed documentation.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of gonococcal infections, improving data accuracy and treatment tracking. It emphasizes the importance of detailed documentation.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of gonococcal infections, improving data accuracy and treatment tracking. It emphasizes the importance of detailed documentation.

Resources

Clinical References

  • •
    CDC Gonorrhea Treatment Guidelines

Coding & Billing References

  • •
    CDC Gonorrhea Treatment Guidelines

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the common symptoms of gonococcal infection?

Common symptoms include dysuria, purulent discharge, and pelvic pain. However, many individuals may be asymptomatic.

How is gonococcal infection treated?

Treatment typically involves dual antibiotic therapy, often with ceftriaxone and azithromycin, to address potential resistance.

Why is contact tracing important?

Contact tracing helps prevent further transmission of the infection by ensuring that partners are tested and treated.