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2025 ICD-10-CM code N48.3

Priapism. A prolonged, painful erection not associated with sexual arousal.

Use additional codes to specify the underlying cause of priapism, if known.

Medical necessity for treatment of priapism is established by the presence of a prolonged, painful erection that can potentially lead to complications like ischemia and erectile dysfunction if left untreated.The medical record should document the severity of the condition and the rationale for the chosen treatment approach.

Diagnosis and treatment of priapism typically falls under the purview of urologists, hematologists (if related to blood disorders), or emergency medicine physicians (for acute cases).The clinical responsibility includes a thorough evaluation to determine the underlying cause, appropriate management to resolve the erection and prevent complications, and patient education on potential causes and preventative measures if applicable.

In simple words: Priapism is a painful erection that lasts for a long time, even without sexual stimulation.It's a medical condition that needs treatment.

Priapism is a persistent, usually painful erection lasting for an extended period, typically four hours or more, in the absence of sexual stimulation.It can be caused by various factors, including hematologic disorders (sickle cell disease, leukemia), spinal cord injuries, and certain medications.

Example 1: A 25-year-old male with sickle cell disease presents to the emergency room with a painful erection lasting over six hours. Diagnosis: Priapism (N48.3) due to sickle cell disease., A 60-year-old male with metastatic prostate cancer experiences a prolonged and painful erection unrelated to sexual activity. Diagnosis: Priapism (N48.3) potentially due to malignancy., A 30-year-old male reports a persistent erection after taking a new medication for erectile dysfunction. Diagnosis: Priapism (N48.3) likely drug-induced.

Documentation should include duration of the erection, presence of pain, any associated symptoms, relevant medical history (especially hematologic disorders, spinal cord injury, medication use), physical examination findings, and results of diagnostic tests (e.g., blood tests, Doppler ultrasound).

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