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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesA54.31

A54.31

Gonococcal conjunctivitis

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

Code Description

ICD-10 A54.31 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of gonococcal conjunctivitis.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Gonococcal conjunctivitis is an acute bacterial infection of the conjunctiva caused by Neisseria gonorrhoeae, a sexually transmitted bacterium. This condition typically presents with symptoms such as redness, swelling, and purulent discharge from the eye. It can occur in adults as a result of direct contact with infected genital secretions, often during sexual activity. In neonates, it can be contracted during passage through an infected birth canal, leading to a serious condition known as ophthalmia neonatorum. Prompt diagnosis and treatment are crucial to prevent complications such as corneal ulceration and potential vision loss. Diagnosis is usually confirmed through culture or nucleic acid amplification tests (NAAT) of conjunctival swabs. Treatment typically involves systemic antibiotics, with ceftriaxone being the first-line therapy. Additionally, it is essential to conduct contact tracing and screening for other sexually transmitted infections (STIs) in affected individuals to prevent further transmission and reinfection.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Need for accurate identification of the causative organism.
  • Differentiation from other types of conjunctivitis.
  • Documentation of sexual history and potential exposure.
  • Requirement for follow-up to ensure resolution of infection.

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of sexual history.
  • Failure to document treatment and follow-up.
  • Misdiagnosis or coding of conjunctivitis without specifying the causative agent.
  • Lack of evidence for contact tracing efforts.

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Ophthalmology

Documentation Requirements

Detailed examination findings, including visual acuity and discharge characteristics.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients presenting with purulent conjunctivitis, especially in sexually active individuals.

Billing Considerations

Ensure to document any systemic symptoms or concurrent STIs.

Infectious Disease

Documentation Requirements

Comprehensive history of exposure, sexual history, and STI screening results.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients with recurrent STIs or those presenting with systemic symptoms.

Billing Considerations

Document treatment regimens and patient education on STI prevention.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use A54.31 When
  • According to ICD
  • 10 guidelines, A54
  • 31 should be used when gonococcal conjunctivitis is confirmed
  • It is important to document the specific diagnosis and any related STIs

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use A54.31 When
  • Exclusion criteria include conjunctivitis caused by other pathogens

Related CPT Codes

99213CPT Code

Established patient office visit, Level 3

Clinical Scenario

Used when a patient presents for evaluation and management of gonococcal conjunctivitis.

Documentation Requirements

Document history, examination findings, and treatment plan.

Specialty Considerations

Ophthalmology may require additional details on ocular examination.

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of gonococcal conjunctivitis, improving the accuracy of data collection and treatment tracking for STIs.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of gonococcal conjunctivitis, improving the accuracy of data collection and treatment tracking for STIs.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of gonococcal conjunctivitis, improving the accuracy of data collection and treatment tracking for STIs.

Resources

Clinical References

  • •
    CDC Guidelines for Gonococcal Infections

Coding & Billing References

  • •
    CDC Guidelines for Gonococcal Infections

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the common symptoms of gonococcal conjunctivitis?

Common symptoms include redness of the eye, swelling, and a thick, purulent discharge. Patients may also experience pain and sensitivity to light.