ICD-11 Codes
for GA00 - Vulvitis

Teodor Jurukovski January 1, 1970

Fact checked by: Teodor Jurukovski

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Understanding Vulvitis: An Overview

Vulvitis, identified by the ICD-11 code GA00, refers to inflammation of the vulva. The vulva encompasses the external female genitalia, including the labia majora, labia minora, clitoris, and the vaginal opening (introitus). This condition is not a disease in itself but rather a symptom or manifestation of an underlying issue, often occurring alongside inflammation of the vagina, known as vulvovaginitis.

Recognising the Signs: Symptoms of Vulvitis

Patients experiencing vulvitis may present with a range of symptoms, commonly including:

• Itching or pruritus vulvae in the vulvar area.
• Redness and swelling of the vulvar tissues.
• A burning or stinging sensation.
• Pain or discomfort.
• Discharge, which can vary in appearance depending on the cause.

Factors Contributing to Vulvitis

Several factors can lead to or increase the risk of developing vulvitis. These include:

• Infections: Bacterial, fungal (like Candida), or viral infections.
• Irritants and Allergens: Reactions to soaps, detergents, feminine hygiene products, lubricants, latex, or certain fabrics.
• Skin Conditions: Such as eczema, psoriasis, or lichen sclerosus.
• Hormonal Changes: Lower oestrogen levels, particularly in postmenopausal women and prepubescent girls, can lead to thinner, drier vulvar tissue, increasing susceptibility.
• Systemic Diseases: Conditions like diabetes can increase vulnerability due to higher sugar levels in tissues.
• Trauma or Injury: Physical injury or friction to the vulvar area.

Diagnosing Vulvar Inflammation

The diagnosis of vulvitis typically begins with a thorough medical history, where a healthcare provider will inquire about symptoms, sexual history, and the use of potential irritants. This is followed by a physical examination of the vulvar area to assess the extent and nature of the inflammation. Depending on the suspected cause, diagnostic tests may include:

• Swabs for laboratory analysis to identify infections (bacterial, fungal, viral).
• Skin scrapings or biopsies for dermatological conditions.
• Allergy testing if an irritant or allergen is suspected.

Managing Vulvitis: Treatment Approaches

Effective management of vulvitis focuses on identifying and treating the underlying cause. Treatment considerations may include:

• Avoiding known irritants and allergens.
• Maintaining good vulvar hygiene with mild, unscented cleansers.
• Prescription or over-the-counter medications to treat specific infections (e.g., antifungal creams for yeast infections, antibiotics for bacterial infections).
• Topical corticosteroids to reduce inflammation and itching.
• Hormone therapy (topical oestrogen) for postmenopausal women with atrophic changes.

Coding and Reporting Vulvitis with ICD-11

For accurate medical billing and documentation, the ICD-11 code for Vulvitis is GA00. This code falls under the category of 'Inflammatory disorders of the female genital tract'. Specific sub-codes may be used to denote acute, chronic, or unspecified vulvitis, such as GA00.0 for Acute vulvitis or GA00.Z for Vulvitis, unspecified. Proper coding ensures that healthcare services related to the diagnosis and management of vulvitis are correctly reported for billing and statistical purposes.