Late congenital syphilitic polyneuropathy
ICD-10 A50.43 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of late congenital syphilitic polyneuropathy.
Late congenital syphilitic polyneuropathy is a neurological condition resulting from congenital syphilis, which is caused by the bacterium Treponema pallidum. This condition typically manifests in infants born to mothers who were infected with syphilis during pregnancy. The polyneuropathy can present with a range of symptoms including weakness, sensory deficits, and motor dysfunction due to damage to peripheral nerves. The onset of symptoms may vary, but they often appear in the first few months of life. Diagnosis is made through clinical evaluation, serological testing for syphilis, and neurological examination. Treatment involves the administration of antibiotics, primarily penicillin, which is effective in treating the underlying syphilis infection. Early intervention is crucial to mitigate long-term neurological damage. The condition underscores the importance of prenatal screening for syphilis and the need for timely treatment to prevent congenital transmission.
Detailed history of maternal health, prenatal care, and infant neurological assessments.
Infants presenting with developmental delays or neurological deficits.
Need for follow-up assessments to monitor neurological development.
Comprehensive documentation of syphilis screening and treatment protocols.
Management of congenital syphilis cases and their complications.
Understanding of syphilis transmission and prevention strategies.
Used to confirm syphilis infection in pregnant women and newborns.
Document the reason for testing and results.
Infectious disease specialists should ensure comprehensive testing protocols.
Accurate coding of A50.43 is crucial for appropriate treatment planning, resource allocation, and tracking of congenital syphilis cases, which can significantly impact public health initiatives.
