Secondary syphilitic meningitis
ICD-10 A51.41 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of secondary syphilitic meningitis.
Secondary syphilitic meningitis is a severe manifestation of syphilis, a sexually transmitted infection caused by the bacterium Treponema pallidum. This condition arises when the infection disseminates to the central nervous system, leading to inflammation of the meninges. Patients may present with symptoms such as severe headache, fever, neck stiffness, and altered mental status. Diagnosis typically involves serological testing for syphilis, lumbar puncture for cerebrospinal fluid analysis, and imaging studies to assess for complications. Treatment primarily consists of high-dose intravenous penicillin G, which is effective in eradicating the infection. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial to prevent long-term neurological damage. Contact tracing is essential to identify and treat sexual partners, thereby reducing the risk of further transmission. Given the potential for serious complications, including neurological deficits, timely intervention is critical in managing this condition.
Detailed patient history, serological test results, and treatment plans.
Patients presenting with neurological symptoms and a history of syphilis.
Ensure all relevant tests and treatments are documented to support coding.
Neurological examination findings, imaging results, and treatment responses.
Patients with altered mental status and confirmed syphilis infection.
Documenting the neurological impact of syphilis is crucial for accurate coding.
Used to confirm syphilis diagnosis in patients with neurological symptoms.
Document the reason for testing and results.
Infectious disease specialists should ensure comprehensive testing.
Symptoms include severe headache, fever, neck stiffness, and altered mental status, which may vary in severity.
Diagnosis is made through serological testing for syphilis and lumbar puncture to analyze cerebrospinal fluid.
Treatment typically involves high-dose intravenous penicillin G, which is effective in treating the infection.
