Gonococcal infection of other specified sites
ICD-10 A54.8 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of gonococcal infection of other specified sites.
Gonococcal infection of other specified sites refers to infections caused by the bacterium Neisseria gonorrhoeae that occur in anatomical locations not typically classified under the more common sites such as the urogenital tract. This can include infections in the throat (pharyngeal gonorrhea), rectum (anorectal gonorrhea), and other less common sites. Gonococcal infections are a significant public health concern due to their prevalence as a sexually transmitted infection (STI) and their potential to cause serious health complications if left untreated, including pelvic inflammatory disease, infertility, and increased susceptibility to HIV. The clinical presentation may vary depending on the site of infection, with symptoms ranging from asymptomatic cases to severe pain, discharge, and systemic symptoms. Diagnosis is typically confirmed through laboratory testing, including nucleic acid amplification tests (NAATs) or culture methods. Treatment guidelines recommend dual therapy with antibiotics, usually a combination of ceftriaxone and azithromycin, to effectively combat the infection and reduce the risk of antibiotic resistance.
Detailed clinical notes on symptoms, site of infection, and treatment plan.
Patients presenting with atypical symptoms of gonorrhea or recurrent infections.
Consideration of co-infections and antibiotic resistance patterns.
Clear documentation of urinary symptoms and any diagnostic imaging or procedures performed.
Men presenting with urethritis or pelvic pain with suspected gonococcal infection.
Need for accurate coding to reflect the site of infection and any associated complications.
Used when testing for gonococcal infection in patients presenting with symptoms.
Document the reason for testing and the site of infection.
Infectious disease specialists should ensure accurate coding based on test results.
Common sites include the urethra, cervix, rectum, and throat. A54.8 is used for infections at sites other than these.
Treatment typically involves dual antibiotic therapy, often with ceftriaxone and azithromycin, to effectively eradicate the infection.
