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v1.0.0
ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesA50.56

A50.56

Billable

Late congenital syphilitic osteochondropathy

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

Code Description

ICD-10 A50.56 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of late congenital syphilitic osteochondropathy.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Late congenital syphilitic osteochondropathy is a rare condition resulting from maternal syphilis infection during pregnancy, leading to skeletal abnormalities in the offspring. This condition typically manifests in children who were infected with Treponema pallidum in utero, often presenting with bone deformities, joint pain, and growth disturbances. The osteochondropathy can affect various bones, particularly the long bones, leading to complications such as limb shortening and functional impairment. Diagnosis is primarily clinical, supported by imaging studies that reveal characteristic changes in bone structure. Treatment focuses on managing symptoms and may involve orthopedic interventions to correct deformities. Early identification and management are crucial to improve the quality of life for affected individuals. Additionally, contact tracing and treatment of sexual partners of the infected mother are essential to prevent further transmission of syphilis.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Requires understanding of congenital syphilis and its long-term effects.
  • Differentiation from other forms of osteochondropathy.
  • Need for comprehensive maternal history and prenatal care documentation.
  • Potential for co-morbid conditions complicating the diagnosis.

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of maternal syphilis history.
  • Failure to document specific skeletal abnormalities.
  • Misclassification with other congenital conditions.
  • Lack of follow-up documentation on treatment outcomes.

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Pediatrics

Documentation Requirements

Detailed history of maternal health, prenatal care, and specific skeletal findings.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Diagnosis of congenital syphilis in newborns, evaluation of skeletal deformities.

Billing Considerations

Need for interdisciplinary collaboration with infectious disease specialists.

Orthopedics

Documentation Requirements

Imaging studies, surgical notes if corrective procedures are performed.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Management of limb deformities and functional impairments due to osteochondropathy.

Billing Considerations

Documentation of long-term follow-up and rehabilitation needs.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use A50.56 When
  • Follow ICD
  • CM guidelines for coding congenital conditions, ensuring accurate documentation of maternal syphilis and associated skeletal findings
  • Include any relevant co
  • morbidities

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use A50.56 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

20610CPT Code

Arthrocentesis, aspiration and/or injection into a major joint or bursa

Clinical Scenario

Used for joint pain management in patients with osteochondropathy.

Documentation Requirements

Document indication for procedure and joint involved.

Specialty Considerations

Orthopedic specialists may perform this procedure.

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of congenital conditions, improving the accuracy of data collection and reimbursement for conditions like A50.56.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of congenital conditions, improving the accuracy of data collection and reimbursement for conditions like A50.56.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

reimbursement for conditions like A50.56.

Resources

Clinical References

  • •
    CDC Syphilis Information

Coding & Billing References

  • •
    CDC Syphilis Information

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the significance of documenting maternal syphilis history?

Documenting maternal syphilis history is crucial for accurate diagnosis and coding of congenital conditions, as it directly impacts the management and treatment of the affected child.