Late syphilitic encephalitis
ICD-10 A52.14 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of late syphilitic encephalitis.
Late syphilitic encephalitis is a severe neurological complication of untreated syphilis, typically occurring years after the initial infection. This condition arises from the invasion of Treponema pallidum, the bacterium responsible for syphilis, into the central nervous system. Patients may present with a range of neurological symptoms, including cognitive decline, personality changes, seizures, and motor deficits. The diagnosis is often confirmed through serological testing for syphilis and neuroimaging studies, which may reveal changes consistent with encephalitis. Late syphilitic encephalitis is part of the tertiary stage of syphilis, which can also include cardiovascular and gummatous manifestations. Treatment involves the administration of high-dose penicillin, which is effective in managing the infection and preventing further neurological damage. Early detection and treatment of syphilis are crucial to prevent the progression to this debilitating condition.
Detailed history of syphilis infection, treatment history, and neurological assessments.
Patients presenting with neurological symptoms and a history of untreated syphilis.
Ensure all serological tests and imaging studies are documented to support the diagnosis.
Comprehensive neurological examination findings, cognitive assessments, and imaging results.
Patients with cognitive decline and personality changes who have a history of syphilis.
Document the progression of neurological symptoms and response to treatment.
Used when administering high-dose penicillin for treatment of late syphilitic encephalitis.
Document the reason for infusion, dosage, and patient response.
Infectious disease specialists should ensure that the treatment plan aligns with current guidelines.
Common symptoms include cognitive decline, personality changes, seizures, and motor deficits. Patients may also experience headaches and confusion.
Diagnosis is based on a combination of clinical symptoms, serological testing for syphilis, and neuroimaging studies that may show signs of encephalitis.
The primary treatment is high-dose penicillin, which is effective in managing the infection and preventing further neurological damage.
