Syphilitic saddle nose
ICD-10 A50.57 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of syphilitic saddle nose.
Syphilitic saddle nose is a deformity of the nose that occurs as a result of tertiary syphilis, a sexually transmitted infection caused by the bacterium Treponema pallidum. This condition is characterized by the collapse of the nasal bridge, leading to a flattened appearance reminiscent of a saddle. The pathophysiology involves the destruction of the nasal cartilage due to the inflammatory response associated with syphilis. Patients may present with other systemic manifestations of syphilis, including skin rashes, mucous membrane lesions, and neurological symptoms. Diagnosis is typically made through serological testing for syphilis, including non-treponemal tests (e.g., RPR, VDRL) and treponemal tests (e.g., FTA-ABS). Treatment involves the administration of penicillin, which is effective in eradicating the infection and preventing further complications. Early detection and treatment are crucial to prevent the progression to tertiary syphilis and associated complications such as saddle nose deformity.
Detailed history of syphilis infection, treatment history, and follow-up care.
Patients presenting with late-stage syphilis and associated complications.
Ensure comprehensive documentation of all symptoms and treatment responses.
Pre-operative assessments, surgical notes, and post-operative follow-up.
Reconstructive surgery for patients with saddle nose deformity.
Document the functional and aesthetic implications of the deformity.
Used in conjunction with A50.57 for surgical correction of saddle nose.
Pre-operative assessment, surgical notes, and post-operative care documentation.
Plastic surgeons should document the functional and aesthetic implications of the surgery.
Common symptoms include a noticeable flattening of the nasal bridge, potential nasal obstruction, and other systemic symptoms of syphilis such as skin rashes and mucous membrane lesions.
