Late congenital syphilis, unspecified

This code signifies a diagnosis of congenital syphilis that manifests after two years of age, where the specific clinical presentation or sequelae are not documented. It indicates a chronic infection transmitted from mother to child during pregnancy, with long-term effects that are not further specified.

This code is appropriate when documentation confirms late congenital syphilis, but the specific manifestations (e.g., interstitial keratitis, Hutchinson's teeth, neurosyphilis) are not detailed. Use it when the medical record clearly states "late congenital syphilis, unspecified" or similar language without further clinical elaboration.

• Avoid using this code if specific late congenital syphilis manifestations are documented; instead, code to the specific manifestation (e.g., A50.3 for late congenital syphilitic oculopathy).
• Ensure the documentation clearly indicates "late" congenital syphilis, as opposed to early congenital syphilis (A50.0-A50.2).
• Consider sequencing this code as a primary diagnosis if it is the reason for the encounter, or as a secondary diagnosis if it is an underlying condition affecting the patient's care.