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ICD-10 Coding for Sexually Transmitted Diseases(A50, A54.09)

Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Sexually Transmitted Diseases. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.

Also known as:

STDsSexually Transmitted InfectionsSTIs

Related ICD-10 Code Ranges

Complete code families applicable to Sexually Transmitted Diseases

A50-A64Primary Range

Infections with a predominantly sexual mode of transmission

This range includes all primary codes for sexually transmitted diseases.

Encounter for screening for infections with a predominantly sexual mode of transmission

Used for asymptomatic screening encounters.

Contact with and (suspected) exposure to HIV

Used when there is a known exposure to HIV.

Code Comparison: When to Use Each Code

Compare key differences between these codes to ensure accurate selection

CodeDescriptionWhen to UseKey Documentation
A50Congenital syphilisUse when congenital syphilis is confirmed in a newborn.
  • Positive serologic test for syphilis in a newborn
A54.09Gonococcal infection of lower genitourinary tract without periurethral or accessory gland abscessUse when gonococcal infection is confirmed in the lower genitourinary tract.
  • Positive NAAT or culture for Neisseria gonorrhoeae

Clinical Decision Support

Always review the patient's clinical documentation thoroughly. When in doubt, choose the more specific code and ensure documentation supports it.

Key Information: ICD-10 code for STD screening

Essential facts and insights about Sexually Transmitted Diseases

The ICD-10 code for STD screening without symptoms is Z11.3.

Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for sexually transmitted disease

Congenital syphilis
Non-billable Code

Decision Criteria

clinical Criteria

  • Confirmed congenital syphilis via serologic testing

Applicable To

  • Congenital syphilitic infection

Excludes

Clinical Validation Requirements

  • Positive serologic test for syphilis in a newborn

Code-Specific Risks

  • Misclassification if not confirmed by serologic testing

Coding Notes

  • Ensure documentation specifies congenital origin.

Ancillary Codes

Additional codes that should be used in conjunction with the main diagnosis codes when applicable.

High-risk heterosexual behavior

Z72.51
Use to indicate high-risk sexual behavior context.

Differential Codes

Alternative codes to consider when ruling out similar conditions to the primary diagnosis.

Gonococcal infection with periurethral or accessory gland abscess

A54.02
Presence of abscess confirmed by imaging or examination.

Documentation & Coding Risks

Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Sexually Transmitted Diseases to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code A50.

Impact

Clinical: May lead to inappropriate treatment., Regulatory: Non-compliance with documentation standards., Financial: Potential for claim denials.

Mitigation Strategy

Use specific terminology, Include test results

Impact

Reimbursement: Incorrect coding may lead to claim denials., Compliance: Non-compliance with coding guidelines., Data Quality: Inaccurate data on STD prevalence and treatment.

Mitigation Strategy

Use specific STD codes when symptoms are present.

Impact

Using Z11.3 for symptomatic patients.

Mitigation Strategy

Ensure symptoms are documented and appropriate codes are used.

Documentation errors, coding pitfalls, and audit risks are interconnected aspects of medical coding and billing. Addressing all three areas helps ensure accurate coding, optimal reimbursement, and regulatory compliance.

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about ICD-10 coding for Sexually Transmitted Diseases, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.

Documentation Templates for Sexually Transmitted Diseases

Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Sexually Transmitted Diseases. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.

Asymptomatic STD Screening

Specialty: Primary Care

Required Elements

  • Patient history
  • Risk factors
  • Screening tests ordered

Example Documentation

Patient presents for routine STD screening. No symptoms reported. Screening tests for gonorrhea and chlamydia ordered.

Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation

Poor Documentation Example
Patient here for STD check.
Good Documentation Example
Patient presents for routine STD screening. Denies symptoms. Reports 2 new sexual partners in past month without condom use.
Explanation
The good example provides context and risk factors, supporting medical necessity.

Need help with ICD-10 coding for Sexually Transmitted Diseases? Ask your questions below.

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