A54: Gonococcal infection

A54 refers to Gonococcal infection, a condition classified under sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Accurate documentation using this ICD10 code ensures effective diagnosis, treatment, contact tracing, and public health reporting. Proper use of this code supports early detection, helps reduce transmission, and ensures medical professionals can provide appropriate and timely care.

Symptoms

• Genital sores – Painful or painless lesions in affected areas
• Discharge – Abnormal vaginal or urethral discharge
• Burning during urination – A common symptom of many STIs
• Pelvic pain – Especially in infections like PID or syphilis
• Skin rashes – Typical of syphilis and some viral STIs
• Fever – May accompany systemic infection
• Swollen lymph nodes – Often near the groin area

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of Gonococcal infection typically involves a combination of physical examination, patient history, and laboratory testing. Diagnostic methods include blood tests, urine samples, swabs from lesions or discharge, and nucleic acid amplification tests (NAATs). Identifying the specific causative organism is key for targeted treatment. Early detection and treatment reduce complications and limit disease transmission.

ICD10 Code Usage

ICD10 code A54 is used in healthcare documentation, medical billing, and disease surveillance. Providers use it in electronic health records (EHRs) to record STI diagnoses and treatment. Public health agencies track these codes for epidemiological data, while insurance systems use them to process claims. Accurate coding is essential for STI control programs and healthcare resource planning.

Related Codes

• A50 – Congenital syphilis
• A51 – Early syphilis
• A52 – Late syphilis
• A53 – Other and unspecified syphilis
• A55 – Chlamydial lymphogranuloma (venereum)
• A56 – Other sexually transmitted chlamydial diseases
• A57 – Chancroid
• A58 – Granuloma inguinale
• A59 – Trichomoniasis
• A60 – Anogenital herpesviral [herpes simplex] infections
• A63 – Other predominantly sexually transmitted diseases, not elsewhere classified
• A64 – Unspecified sexually transmitted disease

FAQs

Q1: What is ICD10 code A54?
A: It classifies the diagnosis of Gonococcal infection in healthcare records and billing systems.

Q2: Are these STIs curable?
A: Many are curable with antibiotics or antivirals, though some (like herpes) are manageable but not curable.

Q3: Can this STI affect pregnancy?
A: Yes, several STIs can impact pregnancy and may be transmitted to the newborn.

Q4: Is this condition reportable?
A: Yes, most STIs are reportable to public health authorities for tracking and prevention.

Q5: How can this STI be prevented?
A: Prevention includes safe sex practices, regular screening, vaccination (for HPV or hepatitis), and prompt treatment of partners.

Conclusion

ICD10 code A54 is vital in the diagnosis and management of Gonococcal infection. It enables structured medical documentation, accurate disease tracking, and efficient treatment planning. Ensuring the correct use of STI-related ICD10 codes contributes to better patient outcomes and supports public health efforts in reducing the spread of infections.