Late syphilis, unspecified
ICD-10 A51.9 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of late syphilis, unspecified.
Late syphilis, unspecified, refers to the advanced stage of syphilis infection that occurs after the primary and secondary stages have resolved. This stage can manifest years after initial infection and is characterized by the potential development of serious complications affecting various organ systems, including the cardiovascular and neurological systems. Patients may present with gummatous lesions, cardiovascular syphilis, or neurosyphilis, although symptoms can be subtle or absent. Diagnosis is typically confirmed through serological testing, including non-treponemal tests (e.g., RPR, VDRL) and treponemal tests (e.g., FTA-ABS). Treatment involves the administration of benzathine penicillin G, with the dosage and duration depending on the specific manifestations of the disease. Contact tracing is crucial to prevent further transmission, as syphilis is a sexually transmitted infection (STI) that can be asymptomatic for long periods. Public health measures should include education on safe sex practices and regular screening for at-risk populations.
Detailed patient history, serological test results, treatment plans, and follow-up notes.
Patients presenting with late-stage syphilis symptoms, complications, or those requiring management of co-infections.
Ensure comprehensive documentation of all clinical findings and treatment responses to support coding.
Complete medical history, risk factors for STIs, and any referrals made for specialized care.
Routine screening of at-risk populations and management of patients with positive syphilis tests.
Documenting patient education on STI prevention and follow-up testing is crucial.
Used for screening and diagnosis of syphilis.
Document the reason for testing and results.
Infectious disease specialists may require additional documentation for follow-up.
Common symptoms include gummatous lesions, cardiovascular issues, and neurological symptoms, although many patients may be asymptomatic.
