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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesA50.01

A50.01

Billable

Early congenital syphilitic oculopathy

BILLABLE STATUSYes
IMPLEMENTATION DATEOctober 1, 2015
LAST UPDATED09/05/2025

Code Description

ICD-10 A50.01 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of early congenital syphilitic oculopathy.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Early congenital syphilitic oculopathy is a manifestation of congenital syphilis, which occurs when a mother with untreated syphilis transmits the infection to her fetus during pregnancy. This condition is characterized by various ocular abnormalities that can include keratitis, chorioretinitis, and optic nerve damage, leading to visual impairment or blindness. The clinical presentation may vary, but common findings include corneal opacities, retinal changes, and inflammation of the eye structures. Diagnosis is typically made through a combination of clinical examination, serological testing for syphilis, and imaging studies. Early detection and treatment are crucial to prevent long-term complications. Treatment usually involves the administration of penicillin, which is effective in eradicating the infection and preventing further ocular damage. Regular follow-up is essential to monitor visual development and manage any arising complications.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Requires knowledge of congenital syphilis transmission and effects.
  • Differentiation from other ocular conditions is necessary.
  • Documentation must include maternal syphilis status.
  • Requires understanding of treatment protocols and follow-up care.

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of maternal syphilis status.
  • Failure to document specific ocular findings.
  • Lack of follow-up notes on treatment effectiveness.
  • Misclassification of the condition with other ocular diseases.

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Ophthalmology

Documentation Requirements

Detailed ocular examination findings, including visual acuity and specific abnormalities.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Evaluation of infants with suspected congenital syphilis presenting with visual impairment.

Billing Considerations

Ensure all ocular findings are documented to support the diagnosis.

Obstetrics

Documentation Requirements

Maternal syphilis screening results and treatment history.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Pregnant women with a history of syphilis requiring monitoring and treatment.

Billing Considerations

Documenting maternal treatment and follow-up is critical for accurate coding.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use A50.01 When
  • According to ICD
  • 10 coding guidelines, A50
  • 01 should be used when there is clear documentation of early congenital syphilitic oculopathy
  • It is important to include the maternal syphilis status and any ocular findings in the medical record

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use A50.01 When
  • Exclusion criteria include cases where ocular symptoms are due to other congenital infections

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

92014CPT Code

Ophthalmological examination, established patient

Clinical Scenario

Used for follow-up visits of infants diagnosed with congenital syphilitic oculopathy.

Documentation Requirements

Document visual acuity, ocular findings, and treatment plan.

Specialty Considerations

Ophthalmologists should ensure thorough documentation of all findings.

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of congenital syphilis and its manifestations, improving the accuracy of data collection and treatment tracking for affected infants.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of congenital syphilis and its manifestations, improving the accuracy of data collection and treatment tracking for affected infants.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of congenital syphilis and its manifestations, improving the accuracy of data collection and treatment tracking for affected infants.

Resources

Clinical References

  • •
    CDC Congenital Syphilis Guidelines

Coding & Billing References

  • •
    CDC Congenital Syphilis Guidelines

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the significance of coding A50.01?

Coding A50.01 is crucial for identifying infants at risk for visual impairment due to congenital syphilis, ensuring appropriate treatment and follow-up care.