ICD-11 Codes
for GA00.3 - Genital ulcer of vulva

Teodor Jurukovski January 1, 1970

Fact checked by: Teodor Jurukovski

Use Code

Understanding Genital Ulcer of Vulva (ICD-11 Code GA00.3)

Genital ulcer of vulva, identified by the ICD-11 code GA00.3, is a diagnostic term used for ulceration of the vulva where the exact cause is unknown or uncertain. It is often considered a provisional diagnosis, particularly when a sexually transmitted infection (STI) such as herpes simplex, primary syphilis, or chancroid is suspected. This classification is applied until a definitive cause for the ulceration can be established through further investigation.

Recognising the Symptoms of Vulval Ulcers

Patients presenting with vulval ulcers may experience a range of symptoms. These can include pain or discomfort in the vulvar area, a burning sensation, and itching. Some individuals may also notice a discharge. Painful urination or sexual intercourse can occur due to the presence of sores on the vulva. In some cases, a fever might be present. It is important for individuals to seek medical attention if they notice any sores or breaks in the skin on the vulva.

Potential Causes and Differential Diagnoses for Vulval Ulceration

The differential diagnosis for vulval ulcers is broad. Common causes include sexually transmitted infections (STIs) such as genital herpes simplex (HSV), syphilis, chancroid, granuloma inguinale, and lymphogranuloma venereum. Other ulcerative conditions to consider are Behçet's disease and systemic lupus erythematosus. Malignancy, including vulval cancer, vulval intraepithelial neoplasia (VIN), and Paget's disease of the vulva, must also be excluded. Non-sexually acquired genital ulceration (NSGU) is another possibility, particularly in adolescents, and is unrelated to sexual activity.

Diagnostic Approaches for Genital Ulcers of the Vulva

Diagnosing the cause of vulval ulcers typically begins with a thorough medical history and a physical examination of the vulva. Depending on the clinical presentation, investigations may include taking swabs for laboratory analysis, viral cultures, or a biopsy of the affected tissue. Colposcopy may also be used to examine the vulvar area in detail. The aim is to identify the specific underlying cause to guide appropriate treatment.

Management and Treatment Considerations for Vulval Ulcers

Treatment for vulval ulcers focuses on relieving symptoms and addressing the underlying cause. Symptomatic relief may involve analgesia, such as simple oral pain relievers or topical anaesthetics like lidocaine gel. Minimising irritants is also recommended, which can include avoiding soaps, tight underwear, and certain clothing. The specific treatment regimen will depend entirely on the confirmed diagnosis, whether it is an infection, inflammatory condition, or other cause.

Alternative Terms and ICD-11 Coding for Vulval Ulcers

Common synonyms and alternative terms for Genital ulcer of vulva include ulceration of vulva, vulval ulceration, ulcer NOS of vulva, genital ulcer disease of vulva, and vulval ulcer of uncertain nature. Related ICD-11 conditions include Genital ulcer disease of vagina (GA02.3) and Ulcerative or erosive disorders of the vulva (GA41). When documenting, the provisional nature of GA00.3 should be noted, with updates made as a definitive diagnosis is established. This ICD-11 code for genital ulcer of vulva is reportable for accurate medical record-keeping and billing.