Early congenital syphilitic osteochondropathy

This code represents a manifestation of early congenital syphilis affecting the bones and cartilage of an infant. It specifically refers to the characteristic bone lesions, such as periostitis, osteitis, and epiphyseal separation, that occur due to Treponema pallidum infection acquired in utero. These skeletal abnormalities are typically observed within the first two years of life.

Use this code when documentation clearly indicates an infant diagnosed with congenital syphilis presenting with specific bone and cartilage involvement. This diagnosis is often supported by imaging studies (e.g., X-rays showing metaphyseal lucencies or periosteal elevation) and serological evidence of syphilis in both the infant and the mother. It applies to cases where the skeletal pathology is a direct result of the congenital infection.

• Ensure documentation specifies "early" congenital syphilis and clearly links the osteochondropathy to the syphilitic infection.
• Do not confuse with other forms of congenital syphilis without skeletal involvement, or with osteochondropathies from other etiologies.
• Always sequence this code as the primary diagnosis when it is the reason for the encounter, followed by any other associated manifestations of congenital syphilis.