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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesA56.3

A56.3

Chlamydial infection of lower genitourinary tract, unspecified

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

Code Description

ICD-10 A56.3 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of chlamydial infection of lower genitourinary tract, unspecified.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Chlamydial infection of the lower genitourinary tract is a common sexually transmitted infection (STI) caused by the bacterium Chlamydia trachomatis. This infection primarily affects the urethra in men and the cervix in women, but it can also involve the rectum and throat. Many individuals with chlamydial infections are asymptomatic, which can lead to delayed diagnosis and treatment. Symptoms, when present, may include dysuria, increased urinary frequency, abnormal vaginal discharge, and pelvic pain in women. In men, symptoms may include urethral discharge and testicular pain. The infection can lead to serious complications if left untreated, such as pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) in women and epididymitis in men. Screening and early detection are crucial, especially in high-risk populations, to prevent long-term health issues. Treatment typically involves antibiotics, with azithromycin or doxycycline being the most commonly prescribed. Contact tracing is essential to prevent reinfection and further transmission, as partners of infected individuals should also be tested and treated if necessary.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Asymptomatic cases complicate diagnosis and coding.
  • Variability in clinical presentation can lead to misclassification.
  • Need for accurate documentation of sexual history and risk factors.
  • Potential for co-infection with other STIs requires careful consideration.

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of symptoms or risk factors.
  • Failure to document treatment plans or follow-up care.
  • Lack of partner notification and contact tracing records.
  • Misclassification of asymptomatic cases.

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Infectious Disease

Documentation Requirements

Detailed patient history, including sexual history and risk factors, and documentation of treatment plans.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Diagnosis of chlamydia in symptomatic and asymptomatic patients, management of complications.

Billing Considerations

Consideration of co-infections with other STIs and the need for partner treatment.

Gynecology

Documentation Requirements

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

Common Clinical Scenarios

Routine screening in sexually active women, management of PID.

Billing Considerations

Importance of documenting patient education regarding STI prevention.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use A56.3 When
  • Follow the official ICD
  • CM coding guidelines, ensuring accurate documentation of the diagnosis, symptoms, and treatment
  • Include any relevant history of STIs and sexual activity
  • infection is documented

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use A56.3 When
  • Exclude codes for other specific infections unless co

Related CPT Codes

87491CPT Code

Chlamydia trachomatis, amplified probe technique

Clinical Scenario

Used for laboratory confirmation of chlamydial infection.

Documentation Requirements

Document the reason for testing and patient consent.

Specialty Considerations

Infectious disease specialists should ensure comprehensive STI screening.

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of chlamydial infections, improving data accuracy and facilitating better tracking of STIs and their complications.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of chlamydial infections, improving data accuracy and facilitating better tracking of STIs and their complications.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of chlamydial infections, improving data accuracy and facilitating better tracking of STIs and their complications.

Resources

Clinical References

  • •
    CDC Chlamydia Fact Sheet

Coding & Billing References

  • •
    CDC Chlamydia Fact Sheet

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the common symptoms of chlamydial infection?

Common symptoms include dysuria, abnormal discharge, and pelvic pain in women. Many individuals may be asymptomatic.

How is chlamydial infection treated?

Chlamydial infections are typically treated with antibiotics such as azithromycin or doxycycline.

Why is contact tracing important?

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