Syphilitic aneurysm of aorta

This diagnosis code signifies a localized, permanent dilation of the aorta resulting from chronic syphilitic infection. It specifically indicates that the aneurysm is a direct consequence of tertiary syphilis, affecting the largest artery in the body.

Apply this code when documentation clearly states an aortic aneurysm is due to syphilis. This typically occurs in the late stages of untreated syphilis, often many years after the initial infection. Supporting documentation should include a definitive diagnosis of syphilis and evidence linking it to the aortic aneurysm.

• Ensure documentation specifies the syphilitic etiology of the aortic aneurysm.
• Do not use for non-syphilitic aortic aneurysms; those have different ICD-10-CM codes.
• Consider sequencing this code as a primary diagnosis if it is the reason for the encounter, or as a secondary diagnosis if managing other conditions with this as a comorbidity.