Gonococcal arthritis
ICD-10 A54.42 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of gonococcal arthritis.
Gonococcal arthritis is a type of inflammatory arthritis caused by the Neisseria gonorrhoeae bacterium, which is primarily transmitted through sexual contact. This condition typically presents with joint pain, swelling, and inflammation, often affecting the knees, wrists, and ankles. Patients may also exhibit systemic symptoms such as fever and malaise. Gonococcal arthritis can occur as a complication of disseminated gonococcal infection (DGI), where the bacteria spread from the initial site of infection, often the urogenital tract, to the joints. Diagnosis is confirmed through synovial fluid analysis, culture, and serological tests. Prompt treatment is crucial to prevent joint damage and involves the use of antibiotics, with ceftriaxone being a common choice. In addition to treating the infection, it is essential to conduct contact tracing to identify and treat sexual partners to prevent further transmission of the infection.
Detailed history of sexual activity, lab results, and treatment plans.
Patients presenting with joint pain and a history of STIs.
Need for comprehensive STI screening and partner notification.
Clinical evaluation of joint symptoms, lab results, and treatment response.
Patients with joint swelling and systemic symptoms, requiring differentiation from other arthritides.
Consideration of co-existing autoimmune conditions.
Used when confirming the diagnosis of gonococcal arthritis.
Document the source of the culture and the organism identified.
Infectious disease specialists may require additional tests for comprehensive STI screening.
Common symptoms include joint pain, swelling, and inflammation, often accompanied by systemic symptoms like fever and malaise.
Diagnosis is made through clinical evaluation, synovial fluid analysis, and cultures for Neisseria gonorrhoeae.
Treatment typically involves antibiotics, with ceftriaxone being a common choice, along with supportive care for joint symptoms.
