A54.85

HCC Category Mapping

What This Code Means

This is an infection of the peritoneum (the thin membrane lining the abdominal cavity) caused by the bacterium Neisseria gonorrhoeae, which is sexually transmitted. The infection causes inflammation and pain in the abdominal area.

Coding Tips

• •Verify that the peritonitis is specifically documented as gonococcal in origin; do not use this code for peritonitis from other causes
• •Consider whether this is part of disseminated gonococcal infection (DGI) and check for additional codes for other affected sites such as joints or heart

Clinical Significance

Gonococcal peritonitis is a serious abdominal infection from disseminated gonorrhea, more commonly seen in females where pelvic infection can extend to the peritoneum. This represents a surgical emergency that requires prompt diagnosis and treatment to prevent sepsis and multi-organ failure.

Documentation Requirements

• ✓Confirmed Neisseria gonorrhoeae from peritoneal fluid culture or PCR
• ✓Imaging or surgical findings showing peritoneal inflammation
• ✓Clinical presentation: abdominal pain, guarding, rebound tenderness, fever
• ✓Route of spread documented (ascending pelvic infection, hematogenous dissemination)
• ✓Surgical intervention records if applicable (laparoscopy, laparotomy)

Commonly Confused Codes