Secondary syphilitic hepatitis
ICD-10 A51.45 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of secondary syphilitic hepatitis.
Secondary syphilitic hepatitis is a manifestation of syphilis, a sexually transmitted infection caused by the bacterium Treponema pallidum. This condition occurs when the syphilis infection spreads to the liver, leading to inflammation and potential liver dysfunction. Patients may present with symptoms such as jaundice, abdominal pain, and elevated liver enzymes. Diagnosis typically involves serological testing for syphilis, including non-treponemal tests (e.g., RPR, VDRL) and treponemal tests (e.g., FTA-ABS). Treatment primarily involves the administration of penicillin, which is effective in eradicating the infection and alleviating liver inflammation. It is crucial for healthcare providers to conduct thorough sexual history assessments and implement contact tracing to identify and treat sexual partners, thereby preventing further transmission of syphilis. Regular follow-up and monitoring of liver function tests are recommended to assess recovery and ensure resolution of hepatitis symptoms.
Detailed patient history, serological test results, and treatment plans.
Patients presenting with atypical symptoms of syphilis, including liver dysfunction.
Need for comprehensive sexual health assessments and partner notification.
Liver function tests, imaging studies, and treatment response evaluations.
Patients with unexplained liver enzyme elevation and a history of syphilis.
Differentiating between primary liver diseases and secondary infections.
Used for diagnosing syphilis in patients with liver symptoms.
Document the reason for testing and results.
Infectious disease specialists should ensure comprehensive testing.
Common symptoms include jaundice, abdominal pain, fatigue, and elevated liver enzymes. Patients may also experience systemic symptoms related to syphilis.
