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v1.0.0
ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesA56

A56

Chlamydia trachomatis infection

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

Code Description

ICD-10 A56 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of chlamydia trachomatis infection.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Chlamydia trachomatis infection is a sexually transmitted infection (STI) caused by the bacterium Chlamydia trachomatis. It is one of the most common STIs worldwide and can affect both men and women. In women, it can lead to pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), infertility, and ectopic pregnancy if left untreated. In men, it may cause urethritis and epididymitis. Many individuals infected with Chlamydia are asymptomatic, which complicates diagnosis and increases the risk of transmission. Symptoms, when present, may include abnormal genital discharge, burning sensation during urination, and abdominal pain. Diagnosis is typically made through nucleic acid amplification tests (NAATs) or other laboratory tests. Treatment usually involves antibiotics, such as azithromycin or doxycycline, and it is crucial to treat sexual partners to prevent reinfection and further spread of the disease. Regular screening is recommended for sexually active individuals, particularly those under 25 years of age or with multiple sexual partners.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Asymptomatic cases complicate diagnosis and coding.
  • Need for accurate documentation of symptoms and treatment.
  • Potential for co-infections with other STIs.
  • Variability in treatment regimens based on patient history.

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of symptoms.
  • Failure to document treatment of sexual partners.
  • Misclassification of asymptomatic cases.
  • Lack of follow-up care documentation.

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Infectious Disease

Documentation Requirements

Detailed patient history, including sexual history and previous STIs.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Diagnosis and management of symptomatic and asymptomatic Chlamydia infections.

Billing Considerations

Ensure documentation includes all relevant tests and treatments, especially for asymptomatic patients.

Gynecology

Documentation Requirements

Documentation of pelvic exams, lab results, and treatment plans.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Routine screening and treatment of Chlamydia in sexually active women.

Billing Considerations

Document any complications such as PID or infertility to support coding.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use A56 When
  • Follow the official ICD
  • CM coding guidelines for STIs, ensuring accurate documentation of symptoms, treatment, and follow
  • up care
  • Include any relevant co
  • morbidities or complications in coding

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use A56 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related Codes

Child Codes

12 codes
A56.0
Chlamydia trachomatis genitourinary infection
A56.00
Chlamydial infection of lower genitourinary tract, unspecified
A56.01
Chlamydial cystitis and urethritis
A56.02
Chlamydial vulvovaginitis
A56.09
Other chlamydial infection of lower genitourinary tract
A56.1
Chlamydial infection of lower genitourinary tract, unspecified
A56.11
Chlamydial female pelvic inflammatory disease
A56.19
Other chlamydial genitourinary infection
A56.2
Chlamydial cervicitis
A56.3
Chlamydial infection of lower genitourinary tract, unspecified
A56.4
Chlamydial female pelvic inflammatory disease
A56.8
Other specified sexually transmitted chlamydial diseases

Related CPT Codes

87491CPT Code

Chlamydia trachomatis test

Clinical Scenario

Used during routine STI screening or when symptoms are present.

Documentation Requirements

Document the reason for testing and results.

Specialty Considerations

Infectious disease specialists should ensure comprehensive STI panels are ordered.

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of Chlamydia infections, improving the ability to track and manage STIs effectively. It has also emphasized the importance of documenting asymptomatic cases and partner treatment.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of Chlamydia infections, improving the ability to track and manage STIs effectively. It has also emphasized the importance of documenting asymptomatic cases and partner treatment.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of Chlamydia infections, improving the ability to track and manage STIs effectively. It has also emphasized the importance of documenting asymptomatic cases and partner treatment.

Resources

Clinical References

  • •
    CDC Chlamydia Fact Sheet

Coding & Billing References

  • •
    CDC Chlamydia Fact Sheet

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the primary treatment for Chlamydia trachomatis infection?

The primary treatment for Chlamydia trachomatis infection is antibiotics, typically azithromycin or doxycycline, depending on the patient's medical history and any potential allergies.