ICD-10 Guide

A52.01

Syphilitic aneurysm of aorta

BILLABLE STATUSYes

IMPLEMENTATION DATEOctober 1, 2015

LAST UPDATED09/05/2025

Code Description

ICD-10 A52.01 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of syphilitic aneurysm of aorta.

Key Diagnostic Point:

A syphilitic aneurysm of the aorta is a rare but serious complication of tertiary syphilis, which occurs when the Treponema pallidum bacterium infects the vascular system. This condition typically arises years after the initial syphilis infection, often presenting with symptoms such as chest pain, back pain, or signs of heart failure. The aneurysm forms due to the inflammatory response and damage to the aortic wall, leading to dilation and potential rupture. Diagnosis is usually confirmed through imaging studies such as ultrasound, CT, or MRI, which reveal the aneurysm's size and location. Treatment often involves surgical intervention, including resection of the aneurysm and possible grafting, alongside antibiotic therapy to address the underlying syphilis infection. Early detection and management are crucial to prevent life-threatening complications associated with aortic aneurysms.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

Requires understanding of syphilis stages and complications.
Differentiation from other types of aortic aneurysms.
Need for accurate documentation of syphilis diagnosis.
Potential for co-morbid conditions affecting coding.

Audit Risk Factors

Inadequate documentation of syphilis diagnosis.
Failure to document the size and location of the aneurysm.
Lack of clarity on the treatment plan.
Misclassification of the aneurysm type.

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Infectious Disease

Documentation Requirements

Detailed history of syphilis infection, treatment history, and current symptoms.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients presenting with late-stage syphilis and cardiovascular symptoms.

Billing Considerations

Ensure accurate staging of syphilis and its complications.

Cardiothoracic Surgery

Documentation Requirements

Surgical notes detailing the procedure, findings, and post-operative care.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients requiring surgical intervention for aortic aneurysms due to syphilis.

Billing Considerations

Document the rationale for surgery and any complications encountered.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use A52.01 When

Follow the official ICD
CM coding guidelines, ensuring that the syphilis diagnosis is well
documented and that the aneurysm is accurately described
Include any relevant co
morbidities and complications in the coding

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use A52.01 When

No specific exclusions found.

Related CPT Codes

33405CPT Code

Repair of thoracic aortic aneurysm

Clinical Scenario

Used when a patient with a syphilitic aneurysm undergoes surgical repair.

Documentation Requirements

Surgical notes must detail the procedure and any complications.

Specialty Considerations

Cardiothoracic surgeons must document the etiology of the aneurysm.

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of conditions like syphilitic aneurysms, improving data accuracy and facilitating better patient management.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of conditions like syphilitic aneurysms, improving data accuracy and facilitating better patient management.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of conditions like syphilitic aneurysms, improving data accuracy and facilitating better patient management.

Resources

Clinical References

•
CDC Syphilis Treatment Guidelines

Coding & Billing References

•
CDC Syphilis Treatment Guidelines

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the common symptoms of a syphilitic aneurysm?

Common symptoms include chest pain, back pain, and signs of heart failure. Patients may also present with systemic symptoms related to syphilis.

ICD-10 A52.01 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of syphilitic aneurysm of aorta.