ICD-10 Code A57 – Chancroid (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code A57 – Chancroid
What it is
Chancroid is a sexually transmitted bacterial infection caused by Haemophilus ducreyi. It typically produces painful genital ulcers and may involve nearby lymph nodes.
Clinical signs
Common findings include one or more painful, soft genital ulcers with irregular borders and a dirty or necrotic base. Tender inguinal lymphadenopathy may occur; clinical features vary, so refer to documentation.
When to use this code
Use A57 when the provider documents chancroid or Haemophilus ducreyi infection as the diagnosis. It is appropriate for confirmed or clearly documented clinical cases with genital ulcer disease consistent with chancroid. Check documentation if the chart only notes a nonspecific ulcer, STI exposure, or suspected infection.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for genital ulcers caused by other infections, such as herpes or syphilis. Also avoid it when chancroid is only ruled out or not specifically documented.
Coding tip
Assign A57 only when the record names chancroid or the causative organism; otherwise, code the documented condition exactly.