Late congenital syphilitic osteochondropathy

This code describes bone and cartilage abnormalities resulting from congenital syphilis that manifests after two years of age. It encompasses conditions like saber shins, Hutchinson's teeth, and saddle nose, which are characteristic skeletal and dental deformities caused by the chronic infection.

Use this code for patients diagnosed with skeletal or cartilaginous manifestations of congenital syphilis that present in late childhood or adulthood. Documentation should clearly state a history of congenital syphilis and describe specific osteochondropathic findings, such as periostitis, osteitis, or joint involvement.

• Differentiate from early congenital syphilis manifestations, which typically present before age two.
• Ensure documentation specifies "late" congenital syphilis and details the osteochondropathic findings.
• Consider sequencing this code as a primary diagnosis if it is the reason for the encounter, or as a secondary diagnosis if managing other complications.