Gonococcal pharyngitis
ICD-10 A54.5 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of gonococcal pharyngitis.
Gonococcal pharyngitis is an infection of the throat caused by the bacterium Neisseria gonorrhoeae, which is primarily transmitted through sexual contact. This condition is classified as a sexually transmitted infection (STI) and can occur in individuals who engage in oral sex with an infected partner. Symptoms may include sore throat, difficulty swallowing, and swollen lymph nodes, although many individuals may be asymptomatic. Diagnosis is typically confirmed through laboratory testing, including nucleic acid amplification tests (NAATs) or culture. Treatment usually involves the administration of antibiotics, with dual therapy often recommended to combat potential antibiotic resistance. It is crucial for healthcare providers to conduct thorough sexual histories and consider screening for other STIs, as co-infections are common. Contact tracing is essential to prevent further transmission, and partners should be notified and treated accordingly. Public health guidelines emphasize the importance of education on safe sexual practices to reduce the incidence of gonococcal infections.
Detailed documentation of patient history, symptoms, and laboratory results.
Patients presenting with sore throat and sexual history indicating potential exposure.
Consideration of antibiotic resistance patterns and treatment guidelines.
Comprehensive sexual history and documentation of any associated symptoms.
Routine STI screening in sexually active individuals.
Importance of patient education on safe sexual practices.
Used when testing for gonococcal infection in symptomatic patients.
Document the reason for testing and patient symptoms.
Infectious disease specialists may require additional details on treatment response.
Common symptoms include sore throat, difficulty swallowing, and swollen lymph nodes. However, many individuals may be asymptomatic.
Diagnosis is typically made through laboratory testing, including nucleic acid amplification tests (NAATs) or culture of the throat.
The recommended treatment usually involves dual antibiotic therapy to effectively treat the infection and prevent resistance.
