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v1.0.0
ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesN45.1

N45.1

Billable

Epididymitis

BILLABLE STATUSYes
IMPLEMENTATION DATEOctober 1, 2015
LAST UPDATED09/18/2025

Code Description

ICD-10 N45.1 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of epididymitis.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Epididymitis is an inflammation of the epididymis, a coiled tube located at the back of the testicle that stores and matures sperm. This condition can be acute or chronic and is often caused by bacterial infections, sexually transmitted infections (STIs), or urinary tract infections. Symptoms typically include unilateral scrotal pain, swelling, and tenderness, which may be accompanied by fever and dysuria. In some cases, epididymitis can lead to complications such as abscess formation, testicular necrosis, or infertility. The condition is often associated with other testicular disorders, including orchitis, which is inflammation of the testis itself. Management may involve antibiotics, analgesics, and supportive care. In chronic cases, further evaluation for underlying causes such as hydrocele or male infertility may be necessary. Proper diagnosis and treatment are crucial to prevent long-term complications, including penile disorders and fertility issues.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Differentiating between acute and chronic forms of epididymitis
  • Identifying the underlying cause (bacterial, viral, or non-infectious)
  • Co-occurrence with other male reproductive disorders
  • Variability in presentation and symptoms among patients

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of symptoms and clinical findings
  • Failure to specify the underlying cause of epididymitis
  • Misclassification of acute vs. chronic cases
  • Lack of supporting documentation for associated conditions

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Urology

Documentation Requirements

Detailed clinical notes including patient history, physical examination findings, and diagnostic test results.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients presenting with acute scrotal pain, swelling, and fever; chronic cases with recurrent symptoms.

Billing Considerations

Consideration of STIs and other infectious causes; documentation of any surgical interventions or referrals.

Primary Care

Documentation Requirements

Comprehensive history and physical examination, including sexual history and urinary symptoms.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Initial evaluation of scrotal pain; management of uncomplicated cases.

Billing Considerations

Coordination with urology for referrals; documentation of follow-up care and treatment response.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use N45.1 When
  • Follow official ICD
  • 10 coding guidelines, ensuring accurate documentation of the condition's duration and underlying causes
  • Include any relevant co
  • existing conditions that may affect treatment and management

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use N45.1 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

54500CPT Code

Scrotal ultrasound

Clinical Scenario

Used to evaluate scrotal pain and swelling.

Documentation Requirements

Indicate the reason for the ultrasound and findings.

Specialty Considerations

Urologists may order this as part of the diagnostic workup.

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of epididymitis, improving the accuracy of data collection and reimbursement processes. It enables better tracking of epidemiological trends and treatment outcomes.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of epididymitis, improving the accuracy of data collection and reimbursement processes. It enables better tracking of epidemiological trends and treatment outcomes.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

reimbursement processes. It enables better tracking of epidemiological trends and treatment outcomes.

Resources

Clinical References

  • •
    CDC - Epididymitis

Coding & Billing References

  • •
    CDC - Epididymitis

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the common causes of epididymitis?

Common causes include bacterial infections, particularly from STIs like Chlamydia and Gonorrhea, as well as urinary tract infections and non-infectious causes like trauma.

How is epididymitis diagnosed?

Diagnosis is typically made through clinical evaluation, including history and physical examination, and may be supported by imaging studies and laboratory tests.

What is the treatment for epididymitis?

Treatment usually involves antibiotics for bacterial infections, pain management, and supportive care. Chronic cases may require further evaluation and management.