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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesA56.8

A56.8

Other specified sexually transmitted chlamydial diseases

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

Code Description

ICD-10 A56.8 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of other specified sexually transmitted chlamydial diseases.

Key Diagnostic Point:

A56.8 encompasses various sexually transmitted infections (STIs) caused by Chlamydia trachomatis that do not fall under more specific categories. Chlamydia is a common STI that can lead to serious reproductive health issues if left untreated, including pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), infertility, and ectopic pregnancy. The infection can be asymptomatic, particularly in women, making screening and early detection crucial. Symptoms may include abnormal vaginal discharge, burning sensation during urination, and pain during intercourse. Diagnosis is typically made through laboratory testing, including nucleic acid amplification tests (NAATs). Treatment usually involves antibiotics, such as azithromycin or doxycycline, and it is essential to treat sexual partners to prevent reinfection. Contact tracing is a vital component of managing chlamydial infections, as it helps identify and treat individuals who may have been exposed, thereby reducing transmission rates. Public health initiatives often focus on education, prevention strategies, and regular screening, particularly in high-risk populations.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Variability in clinical presentation and symptoms
  • Need for accurate documentation of patient history and risk factors
  • Differentiation from other STIs and related conditions
  • Potential for co-infections with other pathogens

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of symptoms and treatment
  • Failure to document patient education and counseling
  • Lack of follow-up care records
  • Insufficient detail on contact tracing efforts

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Infectious Disease

Documentation Requirements

Detailed patient history, including sexual history and previous STIs, lab results, and treatment plans.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Diagnosis and management of chlamydial infections, treatment of co-infections, and follow-up care.

Billing Considerations

Ensure comprehensive documentation of all tests performed and patient education provided.

Gynecology

Documentation Requirements

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

Common Clinical Scenarios

Management of chlamydia in pregnant women, treatment of PID, and routine screenings.

Billing Considerations

Consider implications for reproductive health and the need for partner notification.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use A56.8 When
  • According to ICD
  • 10 guidelines, A56
  • 8 should be used when the specific type of chlamydial disease is not documented
  • It is important to ensure that the diagnosis is supported by clinical findings and laboratory results

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use A56.8 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related CPT Codes

87491CPT Code

Chlamydia trachomatis test

Clinical Scenario

Used for diagnosing chlamydia in symptomatic and asymptomatic patients.

Documentation Requirements

Document the reason for testing and patient consent.

Specialty Considerations

Infectious disease specialists may require additional lab results.

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. A56.8 provides a means to capture cases that do not fit into more defined categories.

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. A56.8 provides a means to capture cases that do not fit into more defined categories.

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. A56.8 provides a means to capture cases that do not fit into more defined categories.

Resources

Clinical References

  • •
    CDC Chlamydia Fact Sheet

Coding & Billing References

  • •
    CDC Chlamydia Fact Sheet

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the common symptoms of chlamydial infections?

Common symptoms include abnormal discharge, burning during urination, and pelvic pain. However, many individuals may be asymptomatic.

How is chlamydia treated?

Chlamydia is typically treated with antibiotics such as azithromycin or doxycycline. It's important to treat sexual partners as well.

What is the importance of contact tracing in chlamydia management?

Contact tracing helps identify and treat individuals who may have been exposed to chlamydia, reducing the risk of reinfection and further transmission.