Carrier or suspected carrier of gonorrhea

This code identifies an individual who is either a known carrier of Neisseria gonorrhoeae without active symptoms or an individual suspected of being a carrier based on exposure or screening results. It indicates the presence of the pathogen without necessarily signifying an active, symptomatic infection requiring treatment for the patient themselves, but rather a potential source of transmission.

Use this code for asymptomatic individuals who test positive for gonorrhea during routine screening, contact tracing, or pre-procedure evaluations. It is also appropriate for patients identified as sexual contacts of individuals with confirmed gonorrhea, even if their own test results are pending or negative but suspicion remains high.

• This code is for the carrier state or suspected carrier, not for active, symptomatic gonorrhea infection (which would use codes from the 098 series).
• Consider using this code in conjunction with Z codes for screening or exposure if applicable, to provide a more complete clinical picture.
• Ensure documentation clearly supports the carrier or suspected carrier status, such as positive screening tests in an asymptomatic patient or documented exposure.