N48.21 Abscess of corpus cavernosum and penis

ICD10CM code

#### Name of the Condition
- Abscess of Corpus Cavernosum and Penis
- ICD-10 Code: N48.21

#### Summary
Abscess of the corpus cavernosum and penis is a painful condition characterized by a collection of pus within the penile tissue, typically resulting from an infection. This condition can cause swelling, redness, and tenderness in the affected area.

#### Causes
- Bacterial infections, particularly from sexually transmitted infections (e.g., gonorrhea, chlamydia).
- Post-surgical or post-traumatic infections.
- Poor hygiene practices.

#### Risk Factors
- Unprotected sexual activities.
- Recent penile surgery or trauma.
- Immune system deficiencies or conditions such as diabetes.

#### Symptoms
- Swelling and redness of the penis.
- Pain or tenderness in the affected area.
- Fever and general malaise in severe cases.

#### Diagnosis
- Physical examination by a healthcare provider.
- Ultrasound or MRI imaging to evaluate the abscess.
- Blood tests and culture of pus to identify the causative bacteria.

#### Treatment Options
- Antibiotic therapy to eliminate the infection.
- Incision and drainage of the abscess to relieve pressure and remove pus.
- Pain management with analgesics.

#### Prognosis and Follow-Up
- With prompt treatment, full recovery is expected without significant complications.
- Follow-up consultations to ensure the infection has cleared and no residual abscess exists.

#### Complications
- Untreated abscesses may lead to systemic infections or sepsis.
- Erectile dysfunction due to damage to the penile tissues.
- Risk of recurrence if underlying causes are not addressed.

#### Lifestyle & Prevention
- Practicing safe sex by using condoms.
- Maintaining good personal hygiene.
- Regular medical check-ups to monitor and address potential infections early.

#### When to Seek Professional Help
- Sudden swelling or pain in the penis.
- Signs of infection, such as fever or chills.
- Unusual discharge or persistent redness.

#### Additional Resources
- American Urological Association: https://www.auanet.org/
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC): https://www.cdc.gov/
- Men’s Health Network: https://www.menshealthnetwork.org/

#### Tips for Medical Coders
- Ensure the specific site of the abscess is correctly noted when coding (corpus cavernosum and penis).
- Be careful to distinguish this condition from other penile infections or inflammations.
- Double-check for any related complications or additional diagnoses for comprehensive coding.

Similar Codes