Priapism, unspecified

This code represents a prolonged, often painful, erection of the penis that occurs without sexual stimulation or persists beyond sexual stimulation, and for which the specific type (e.g., ischemic, non-ischemic) is not documented. It signifies a persistent penile erection that is not related to sexual arousal and can be a medical emergency.

Use this code when documentation clearly states "priapism" but does not specify the type or underlying cause. This is appropriate for initial encounters or when the specific etiology remains undetermined after workup. Supporting documentation would include physician notes describing a prolonged erection without further diagnostic clarification.

• Avoid using this code if the documentation specifies the type of priapism (e.g., ischemic, non-ischemic, drug-induced); instead, use a more specific code from the N48.3 subcategory.
• Always query the provider for more specific details if the type of priapism is not documented, as specific types may have different treatment implications.
• Consider sequencing this code as a primary diagnosis when priapism is the reason for the encounter, and secondary diagnoses for any identified underlying causes.