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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesA50.49

A50.49

Billable

Other late congenital neurosyphilis

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

Code Description

ICD-10 A50.49 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of other late congenital neurosyphilis.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Late congenital neurosyphilis is a severe manifestation of syphilis that occurs in infants born to mothers who were infected with Treponema pallidum during pregnancy. This condition can lead to significant neurological impairment, including developmental delays, seizures, and cognitive deficits. The term 'other' in this code refers to cases that do not fit into the more specific categories of congenital neurosyphilis, indicating a variety of clinical presentations. Diagnosis typically involves a combination of clinical evaluation, serological testing for syphilis, and neurological assessments. Treatment usually includes high-dose penicillin, which is effective in eradicating the infection and preventing further neurological damage. Early detection and treatment are crucial to improving outcomes for affected infants. Contact tracing and screening of pregnant women for syphilis are essential public health measures to prevent congenital syphilis and its complications.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Variety of clinical presentations complicating diagnosis
  • Need for comprehensive maternal history
  • Potential for co-infections with other STIs
  • Variability in treatment protocols based on severity

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of maternal syphilis status
  • Failure to document neurological assessments
  • Misclassification of the severity of the condition
  • Inconsistent coding of related conditions

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Pediatrics

Documentation Requirements

Detailed history of maternal syphilis, neurological assessments, and treatment plans.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Infants presenting with developmental delays or seizures.

Billing Considerations

Need for interdisciplinary collaboration with infectious disease specialists.

Obstetrics

Documentation Requirements

Screening results for syphilis during pregnancy and treatment protocols.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Pregnant women with positive syphilis tests requiring treatment.

Billing Considerations

Importance of contact tracing and follow-up for partners.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use A50.49 When
  • According to ICD
  • 10 guidelines, A50
  • 49 should be used when the specific type of late congenital neurosyphilis is not classified elsewhere
  • It is important to ensure that the diagnosis is supported by appropriate clinical documentation and serological testing

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use A50.49 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

86592CPT Code

Syphilis serology test

Clinical Scenario

Used for screening pregnant women and infants.

Documentation Requirements

Document the reason for testing and results.

Specialty Considerations

Obstetricians should ensure follow-up on positive results.

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 data collection and treatment tracking. A50.49 provides a distinct code for late manifestations, which aids in better understanding and management of the condition.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of congenital syphilis, improving the accuracy of data collection and treatment tracking. A50.49 provides a distinct code for late manifestations, which aids in better understanding and management of the condition.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

reimbursement.

Resources

Clinical References

  • •
    CDC Syphilis Treatment Guidelines

Coding & Billing References

  • •
    CDC Syphilis Treatment Guidelines

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the common symptoms of late congenital neurosyphilis?

Common symptoms include developmental delays, seizures, and cognitive impairments. Neurological assessments are crucial for diagnosis.

How is congenital neurosyphilis treated?

Treatment typically involves high-dose penicillin, which is effective in treating the infection and preventing further neurological damage.