ICD-10 Code A54.4 – Gonococcal infection of musculoskeletal system (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code A54.4 – Gonococcal infection of musculoskeletal system
What it is
A54.4 identifies gonococcal infection involving the musculoskeletal system, caused by Neisseria gonorrhoeae. Use it when the documented infection affects joints, tendons, or nearby musculoskeletal tissues.
Clinical signs
Clinical features vary; refer to documentation. Common findings may include joint pain, swelling, warmth, reduced motion, or tendon pain when gonococcal infection is confirmed.
When to use this code
Use A54.4 when the provider documents gonococcal involvement of the musculoskeletal system, such as septic arthritis or related spread to joints or tendons. Code it from confirmed diagnosis, not from exposure alone. If the record only says suspected infection, check documentation before assigning the code.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for nongonococcal arthritis, generic joint pain, or musculoskeletal symptoms without documented gonococcal infection. Check documentation if the infection site is unspecified.
Coding tip
Look for explicit provider linkage between gonorrhea and the musculoskeletal site before coding A54.4.