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v1.0.0
ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesN45.3

N45.3

Billable

Epididymo-orchitis

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

Code Description

ICD-10 N45.3 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of epididymo-orchitis.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Epididymo-orchitis is an inflammatory condition affecting the epididymis and the testis, often resulting from infections, trauma, or autoimmune disorders. It is characterized by swelling, pain, and tenderness in the scrotum, which may also present with systemic symptoms such as fever and malaise. The condition can be caused by various pathogens, including sexually transmitted infections (STIs) like Chlamydia trachomatis and Neisseria gonorrhoeae, as well as non-STI bacteria. In some cases, viral infections, such as mumps, can also lead to orchitis. Complications may include abscess formation, testicular necrosis, and infertility, particularly if the condition is recurrent or inadequately treated. Diagnosis typically involves a combination of clinical examination, imaging studies (such as ultrasound), and laboratory tests to identify the causative organism. Management may include antibiotics, analgesics, and in some cases, surgical intervention. Understanding the interplay between epididymo-orchitis and other male reproductive health issues, such as hydrocele and male infertility, is crucial for comprehensive patient care.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Variety of potential underlying causes (infectious, non-infectious)
  • Need for accurate documentation of symptoms and treatment
  • Differentiation from similar conditions (e.g., testicular torsion, hydrocele)
  • Potential for complications affecting coding

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of the causative organism
  • Failure to document associated symptoms
  • Misclassification of the condition as a hydrocele or other testicular disorder
  • Lack of follow-up documentation for recurrent cases

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Urology

Documentation Requirements

Detailed clinical notes on symptoms, diagnostic tests, and treatment plans.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Acute presentation of scrotal pain, chronic epididymo-orchitis, and infertility evaluations.

Billing Considerations

Ensure clarity in distinguishing between infectious and non-infectious causes.

Infectious Disease

Documentation Requirements

Comprehensive history of STIs, laboratory results, and treatment response.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Management of epididymo-orchitis due to STIs and recurrent infections.

Billing Considerations

Focus on the identification of pathogens and antibiotic sensitivity.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use N45.3 When
  • Follow official ICD
  • CM guidelines for coding infectious diseases, ensuring accurate documentation of the condition's etiology and associated symptoms
  • Include any relevant laboratory findings and imaging results

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use N45.3 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

54500CPT Code

Incision and drainage of scrotal abscess

Clinical Scenario

Used when an abscess forms due to epididymo-orchitis.

Documentation Requirements

Document the need for drainage and the condition of the abscess.

Specialty Considerations

Urology specialists should ensure clear documentation of the procedure and its necessity.

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of epididymo-orchitis, improving the accuracy of data collection and reimbursement processes. It has also facilitated better tracking of epidemiological trends related to male reproductive health.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of epididymo-orchitis, improving the accuracy of data collection and reimbursement processes. It has also facilitated better tracking of epidemiological trends related to male reproductive health.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

reimbursement processes. It has also facilitated better tracking of epidemiological trends related to male reproductive health.

Resources

Clinical References

  • •
    ICD-10-CM Official Guidelines for Coding and Reporting

Coding & Billing References

  • •
    ICD-10-CM Official Guidelines for Coding and Reporting

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the common causes of epididymo-orchitis?

Common causes include bacterial infections, particularly sexually transmitted infections, as well as viral infections like mumps. Non-infectious causes can also contribute.

How can epididymo-orchitis affect male fertility?

Epididymo-orchitis can lead to scarring and damage to the reproductive structures, potentially affecting sperm transport and quality, which may result in infertility.