ICD-10 Coding for Trichomonas Infection(A59.01, A59.03, A59.9)
Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Trichomonas Infection. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.
Also known as:
Related ICD-10 Code Ranges
Complete code families applicable to Trichomonas Infection
A59.0-A59.9Primary Range
Trichomoniasis
This range covers all forms of trichomonas infections, including urogenital and unspecified sites.
Code Comparison: When to Use Each Code
Compare key differences between these codes to ensure accurate selection
| Code | Description | When to Use | Key Documentation |
|---|---|---|---|
| A59.01 | Trichomonal vulvovaginitis | Use when trichomonas infection is confirmed in the vulvovaginal area. |
|
| A59.03 | Trichomonal cystitis and urethritis | Use when trichomonas infection is confirmed in the urinary tract. |
|
| A59.9 | Trichomoniasis, unspecified | Use when the site of infection is not specified in the documentation. |
|
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 trichomonas
Essential facts and insights about Trichomonas Infection
Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for trichomonas
Decision Criteria
clinical Criteria
- Presence of symptoms like frothy discharge and positive wet mount
Applicable To
- Trichomonal infection of the vulva and vagina
Excludes
- Bacterial vaginosis (N76.0)
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Motile trichomonads observed on saline wet prep
- Positive NAAT or PCR test
Code-Specific Risks
- Misclassification if site is not specified
Coding Notes
- Ensure documentation specifies the site and method of diagnosis.
A59.03 - Trichomonal cystitis and urethritis
Use when trichomonas infection is confirmed in the urinary tract.
Applicable To
- Trichomonal infection of the bladder and urethra
Excludes
- Non-trichomonal cystitis (N30.90)
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Dysuria with Trichomonas-positive urine NAAT
Coding Notes
Ensure documentation links symptoms to trichomonas infection.
A59.9 - Trichomoniasis, unspecified
Use when the site of infection is not specified in the documentation.
Applicable To
- Unspecified site of trichomonas infection
Excludes
- Specific site trichomonas infections (A59.0x)
Clinical Validation Requirements
- General symptoms with positive trichomonas test but unspecified site
Coding Notes
Avoid use if specific site is documented.
Ancillary Codes
Additional codes that should be used in conjunction with the main diagnosis codes when applicable.
Differential Codes
Alternative codes to consider when ruling out similar conditions to the primary diagnosis.
Documentation & Coding Risks
Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Trichomonas Infection to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code A59.01.
Impact
Clinical: May lead to inappropriate treatment, Regulatory: Non-compliance with documentation standards, Financial: Potential for claim denial
Mitigation Strategy
Always document the test method used, Include test results in the patient record
Impact
Reimbursement: May lead to claim denials or reduced payments, Compliance: Non-compliance with coding guidelines, Data Quality: Decreases accuracy of health records
Mitigation Strategy
Document and code the specific site of infection
Impact
Increased scrutiny on use of A59.9 when site is documented
Mitigation Strategy
Ensure documentation specifies the site of infection
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 Trichomonas Infection, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.
Documentation Templates for Trichomonas Infection
Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Trichomonas Infection. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.
Trichomonal vulvovaginitis diagnosis
Specialty: GynecologyRequired Elements
- Chief Complaint
- Symptoms
- Diagnostics
- Assessment
Example Documentation
Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation
Poor Documentation Example
Good Documentation Example
Explanation
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