Late syphilitic meningitis

This code represents inflammation of the meninges (membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord) caused by Treponema pallidum infection, occurring in the late stage of syphilis. It is a manifestation of neurosyphilis, typically presenting years after the initial infection.

Use this code when documentation confirms a diagnosis of syphilitic meningitis in the late or tertiary stage of syphilis. This diagnosis is often supported by cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) analysis showing pleocytosis, elevated protein, and positive VDRL or FTA-ABS, along with clinical signs of meningitis.

• Ensure documentation specifies "late" or "tertiary" syphilis in conjunction with meningitis.
• Distinguish from early syphilitic meningitis (A51.43) based on the stage of syphilis.
• Code any associated neurological manifestations (e.g., cranial nerve palsies) separately if documented.