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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesA59.9

A59.9

Trichomoniasis, unspecified

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

Code Description

ICD-10 A59.9 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of trichomoniasis, unspecified.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Trichomoniasis is a sexually transmitted infection (STI) caused by the protozoan parasite Trichomonas vaginalis. It is one of the most common STIs worldwide, affecting both men and women, although symptoms are more prevalent in women. The infection is primarily transmitted through sexual contact, and it can lead to various complications if left untreated, including increased susceptibility to HIV and other STIs. In women, trichomoniasis can cause vaginitis, characterized by symptoms such as itching, burning, and a frothy, yellow-green discharge. Men may experience urethritis, which can manifest as burning during urination or discharge from the penis. Diagnosis is typically made through laboratory testing, including wet mount microscopy or nucleic acid amplification tests (NAATs). Treatment usually involves the administration of metronidazole or tinidazole, which are effective in eradicating the parasite. Contact tracing is crucial in managing trichomoniasis, as it helps to identify and treat sexual partners to prevent reinfection and further transmission. The unspecified nature of this code indicates that the specific site of infection or symptoms are not documented, necessitating careful attention to clinical details during coding.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Variability in symptoms and presentation between genders
  • Need for accurate laboratory test results for diagnosis
  • Potential for co-infection with other STIs
  • Documentation of sexual history and partner treatment

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of symptoms
  • Failure to document laboratory test results
  • Lack of evidence for partner treatment
  • Misclassification of the infection site

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Infectious Disease

Documentation Requirements

Detailed patient history, including sexual history and previous STIs.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Diagnosis and management of STIs, including trichomoniasis.

Billing Considerations

Ensure documentation reflects the need for partner notification and treatment.

Obstetrics and Gynecology

Documentation Requirements

Comprehensive gynecological examination findings and lab results.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Management of vaginitis and STIs in pregnant patients.

Billing Considerations

Consider implications for pregnancy and fetal health.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use A59.9 When
  • According to ICD
  • 10 coding guidelines, A59
  • 9 should be used when the specific site of infection is not documented
  • Coders should ensure that all relevant clinical information is captured to support the diagnosis and treatment provided

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use A59.9 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related CPT Codes

87520CPT Code

Nucleic acid amplification test (NAAT) for Trichomonas vaginalis

Clinical Scenario

Used for confirming diagnosis in symptomatic patients.

Documentation Requirements

Document the reason for testing and results.

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 STIs, improving the accuracy of data collection and treatment tracking. A59.9 serves as a catch-all for unspecified cases, emphasizing the need for thorough documentation.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of STIs, improving the accuracy of data collection and treatment tracking. A59.9 serves as a catch-all for unspecified cases, emphasizing the need for thorough documentation.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of STIs, improving the accuracy of data collection and treatment tracking. A59.9 serves as a catch-all for unspecified cases, emphasizing the need for thorough documentation.

Resources

Clinical References

  • •
    CDC Trichomoniasis Fact Sheet

Coding & Billing References

  • •
    CDC Trichomoniasis Fact Sheet

Frequently Asked Questions

What should be documented to support the use of code A59.9?

Document the patient's symptoms, laboratory test results, treatment provided, and any relevant sexual history to support the diagnosis of trichomoniasis.