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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesA51.3

A51.3

ICD-10 Title: Early congenital syphilis, symptomatic

BILLABLE STATUSYes
IMPLEMENTATION DATEOctober 1, 2015
LAST UPDATED09/05/2025

Code Description

ICD-10 A51.3 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of icd-10 title: early congenital syphilis, symptomatic.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Early congenital syphilis, symptomatic, refers to the manifestation of syphilis in infants who have been infected in utero. This condition typically presents within the first two years of life and can lead to a variety of clinical symptoms including skin rashes, fever, irritability, and skeletal abnormalities. The infection is caused by the bacterium Treponema pallidum, which can cross the placental barrier during pregnancy. Symptoms may vary widely, and early diagnosis is crucial for effective treatment. Infants may exhibit signs such as hepatosplenomegaly, jaundice, and nasal discharge. The condition can lead to severe complications if not treated promptly, including developmental delays and other long-term health issues. Treatment typically involves the administration of penicillin, which is effective in eradicating the infection. Close monitoring and follow-up care are essential to ensure the infant's health and development.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Differentiating between symptomatic and asymptomatic congenital syphilis.
  • Understanding the clinical manifestations that may vary by age.
  • Need for thorough documentation of maternal syphilis status.
  • Potential for co-infection with other sexually transmitted infections.

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of maternal syphilis history.
  • Failure to document specific symptoms present in the infant.
  • Misclassification of symptomatic versus asymptomatic cases.
  • Inconsistent coding practices among different providers.

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Pediatrics

Documentation Requirements

Detailed clinical notes on symptoms, maternal history, and treatment response.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Infants presenting with rashes, jaundice, or other systemic symptoms.

Billing Considerations

Need for collaboration with obstetricians to obtain maternal syphilis status.

Obstetrics

Documentation Requirements

Documentation of syphilis screening during pregnancy and treatment protocols.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Pregnant women with a history of syphilis or high-risk behaviors.

Billing Considerations

Importance of timely treatment to prevent transmission to the fetus.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use A51.3 When
  • According to ICD
  • 10 guidelines, A51
  • 3 should be used when there is clear documentation of symptomatic early congenital syphilis
  • It is important to ensure that the symptoms are well
  • documented and that the maternal history of syphilis is included

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use A51.3 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related CPT Codes

86592CPT Code

Syphilis serology test

Clinical Scenario

Used to confirm maternal syphilis status during pregnancy.

Documentation Requirements

Document the reason for testing and results.

Specialty Considerations

Obstetricians should ensure timely screening.

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of congenital syphilis, improving the accuracy of data collection and treatment tracking for affected infants.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of congenital syphilis, improving the accuracy of data collection and treatment tracking for affected infants.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of congenital syphilis, improving the accuracy of data collection and treatment tracking for affected infants.

Resources

Clinical References

  • •
    CDC Syphilis Fact Sheet

Coding & Billing References

  • •
    CDC Syphilis Fact Sheet

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the symptoms of early congenital syphilis?

Symptoms may include rash, jaundice, irritability, and skeletal abnormalities. Early diagnosis is crucial for effective treatment.

How is early congenital syphilis treated?

Treatment typically involves the administration of penicillin, which is effective in eradicating the infection.

What documentation is required for coding A51.3?

Documentation should include maternal syphilis history, infant symptoms, and treatment details.