Urethral abscess
ICD-10 N34.0 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of urethral abscess.
A urethral abscess is a localized collection of pus that forms within the urethra, often resulting from infection or obstruction. This condition can arise due to various factors, including urethritis, which is the inflammation of the urethra typically caused by bacterial infections, sexually transmitted infections, or irritants. Urethral abscesses may also develop secondary to urethral strictures, where narrowing of the urethra leads to urinary retention and subsequent infection. Symptoms often include painful urination, difficulty urinating, and the presence of a palpable mass or swelling in the genital area. Diagnosis is typically made through clinical examination and imaging studies, such as ultrasound or MRI, to assess the extent of the abscess. Treatment usually involves incision and drainage of the abscess, along with antibiotic therapy to address the underlying infection. If left untreated, urethral abscesses can lead to serious complications, including systemic infection or urinary tract obstruction.
Detailed notes on the patient's history, physical examination findings, imaging results, and treatment plans.
Patients presenting with painful urination, swelling in the genital area, or recurrent urinary tract infections.
Urologists should ensure that all relevant diagnostic tests and treatments are documented to support the coding of N34.0.
Thorough documentation of the patient's infection history, laboratory results, and response to antibiotic therapy.
Patients with recurrent infections leading to abscess formation or those with immunocompromised states.
Infectious disease specialists should document the causative organisms and antibiotic susceptibility to support coding.
Used when performing drainage of a urethral abscess.
Document the size, location, and nature of the abscess, as well as the procedure performed.
Urologists should ensure that the procedure is well-documented to support the coding.
Common causes include bacterial infections, sexually transmitted infections, trauma to the urethra, and urinary obstruction due to strictures.
Diagnosis is typically made through clinical examination, imaging studies such as ultrasound, and laboratory tests to identify the causative organism.
Treatment usually involves incision and drainage of the abscess, along with antibiotic therapy to address the underlying infection.
