ICD-10 Logo
ICDxICD-10 Medical Coding
ICD-10 Logo
ICDxICD-10 Medical Coding
ICD 10 CodesDiagnoses
ICD 10 CodesDiagnoses
ICD-10 Logo
ICDxICD-10 Medical Coding

Comprehensive ICD-10-CM code reference with AI-powered search capabilities.

© 2025 ICD Code Compass. All rights reserved.

Browse

  • All Chapters
  • All Categories
  • Diagnoses

Tools

  • AI Code Search
ICD-10-CM codes are maintained by the CDC and CMS. This tool is for reference purposes only.
v1.0.0
ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesA50.03

A50.03

Billable

Early congenital syphilitic pharyngitis

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

Code Description

ICD-10 A50.03 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of early congenital syphilitic pharyngitis.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Early congenital syphilitic pharyngitis is a manifestation of congenital syphilis, which occurs when a mother with syphilis transmits the infection to her fetus during pregnancy. This condition typically presents in neonates and infants, often within the first few weeks of life. The pharyngitis associated with congenital syphilis can lead to significant complications if not diagnosed and treated promptly. Clinically, infants may exhibit symptoms such as difficulty feeding, irritability, and a characteristic rash. The diagnosis is confirmed through serological testing for Treponema pallidum, the bacterium responsible for syphilis. Early intervention is crucial, as untreated congenital syphilis can result in severe long-term health issues, including developmental delays and systemic infections. Treatment typically involves the administration of penicillin, which is effective in eradicating the infection. Close monitoring and follow-up care are essential to ensure the infant's health and development are on track.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Requires understanding of congenital syphilis transmission and symptoms.
  • Differentiation from other forms of pharyngitis.
  • Need for accurate maternal history and serological testing.
  • Potential for co-infection with other STIs.

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of maternal syphilis status.
  • Failure to document serological test results.
  • Lack of follow-up care notes.
  • Misclassification of pharyngitis type.

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Pediatrics

Documentation Requirements

Detailed clinical notes on symptoms, maternal history, and treatment response.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Infants presenting with feeding difficulties and irritability.

Billing Considerations

Need for thorough examination and follow-up to monitor for long-term effects.

Obstetrics

Documentation Requirements

Complete prenatal records, including syphilis screening results.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Pregnant women diagnosed with syphilis and their management.

Billing Considerations

Importance of timely treatment to prevent congenital transmission.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use A50.03 When
  • Follow the official ICD
  • CM coding guidelines, ensuring accurate documentation of the condition's clinical presentation and maternal history
  • Include any relevant laboratory results and treatment plans

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use A50.03 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

86592CPT Code

Syphilis serology test

Clinical Scenario

Used to confirm diagnosis of congenital syphilis.

Documentation Requirements

Document the reason for testing and results.

Specialty Considerations

Pediatricians should ensure thorough documentation of maternal history.

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, improving the accuracy of epidemiological data and treatment tracking.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

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

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

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

Resources

Clinical References

  • •
    CDC Syphilis Fact Sheet

Coding & Billing References

  • •
    CDC Syphilis Fact Sheet

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the symptoms of early congenital syphilitic pharyngitis?

Symptoms may include irritability, feeding difficulties, rash, and oral lesions. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial.